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Jesudass SC, Surendran S, Moon DJ, Shanmugapriya S, Kim JY, Janani G, Veeramani K, Mahadik S, Kim IG, Jung P, Kwon G, Jin K, Kim JK, Hong K, Park YI, Kim TH, Heo J, Sim U. Defect engineered ternary metal spinel-type Ni-Fe-Co oxide as bifunctional electrocatalyst for overall electrochemical water splitting. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 663:566-576. [PMID: 38428114 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.02.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Transition metal spinel oxides were engineered with active elements as bifunctional water splitting electrocatalysts to deliver superior intrinsic activity, stability, and improved conductivity to support green hydrogen production. In this study, we reported the ternary metal Ni-Fe-Co spinel oxide electrocatalysts prepared by defect engineering strategy with rich and deficient Na+ ions, termed NFCO-Na and NFCO, which suggest the formation of defects with Na+ forming tensile strain. The Na-rich NiFeCoO4 spinel oxide reveals lattice expansion, resulting in the formation of a defective crystal structure, suggesting higher electrocatalytic active sites. The spherical NFCO-Na electrocatalysts exhibit lower OER and HER overpotentials of 248 mV and 153 mV at 10 mA cm-2 and smaller Tafel slope values of about 78 mV dec-1 and 129 mV dec-1, respectively. Notably, the bifunctional NFCO-Na electrocatalyst requires a minimum cell voltage of about 1.67 V to drive a current density of 10 mA cm-2. The present work highlights the significant electrochemical activity of defect-engineered ternary metal oxides, which can be further upgraded as highly active electrocatalysts for water splitting applications.
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Park H, Kim D, Jang E, Yu HT, Kim TH, Kim DM, Sung JH, Pak HN, Lee MH, Lip GYH, Yang PS, Joung B. Modifiable lifestyle factors and lifetime risk of atrial fibrillation: longitudinal data from the Korea NHIS-HealS and UK Biobank cohorts. BMC Med 2024; 22:194. [PMID: 38735916 PMCID: PMC11089782 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03400-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The reason for higher incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in Europe compared with East Asia is unclear. We aimed to investigate the association between modifiable lifestyle factors and lifetime risk of AF in Europe and East Asia, along with race/ethnic similarities and disparities. METHODS 1:1 propensity score matched pairs of 242,763 East Asians and 242,763 White Europeans without AF were analyzed. Modifiable lifestyle factors considered were blood pressure, body mass index, cigarette smoking, diabetes, alcohol consumption, and physical activity, categorized as non-adverse or adverse levels. Lifetime risk of AF was estimated from the index age of 45 years to the attained age of 85 years, accounting for the competing risk of death. RESULTS The overall lifetime risk of AF was higher in White Europeans than East Asians (20.9% vs 15.4%, p < 0.001). The lifetime risk of AF was similar between the two races in individuals with non-adverse lifestyle factor profiles (13.4% vs 12.9%, p = 0.575), whereas it was higher in White Europeans with adverse lifestyle factor profiles (22.1% vs 15.8%, p < 0.001). The difference in the lifetime risk of AF between the two races increased as the burden of adverse lifestyle factors worsened (1 adverse lifestyle factor; 4.3% to ≥ 3 adverse lifestyle factors; 11.2%). Compared with East Asians, the relative risk of AF in White Europeans was 23% and 62% higher for one (hazard ratio [HR] 1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16-1.29) and ≥ 3 adverse lifestyle factors (HR 1.62, 95% CI 1.51-1.75), respectively. CONCLUSIONS The overall higher lifetime risk of AF in White Europeans compared with East Asians might be attributable to adverse lifestyle factors. Adherence to healthy lifestyle factors was associated with the lifetime risk of AF of about 1 in 8 regardless of race/ethnicity.
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Park H, Kim D, You SC, Jang E, Yu HT, Kim TH, Kim DM, Sung JH, Pak HN, Lee MH, Yang PS, Joung B. European and US Guideline-Based Statin Eligibility, Genetically Predicted Coronary Artery Disease, and the Risk of Major Coronary Events. J Am Heart Assoc 2024; 13:e032831. [PMID: 38639378 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.032831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A study was designed to investigate whether the coronary artery disease polygenic risk score (CAD-PRS) may guide lipid-lowering treatment initiation as well as deferral in primary prevention beyond established clinical risk scores. METHODS AND RESULTS Participants were 311 799 individuals from the UK Biobank free of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and lipid-lowering treatment at baseline. Participants were categorized as statin indicated, statin indication unclear, or statin not indicated as defined by the European and US guidelines on statin use. For a median of 11.9 (11.2-12.6) years, 8196 major coronary events developed. CAD-PRS added to European-Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation 2 (European-SCORE2) and US-Pooled Cohort Equation (US-PCE) identified 18% and 12% of statin-indication-unclear individuals whose risk of major coronary events were the same as or higher than the average risk of statin-indicated individuals and 16% and 12% of statin-indicated individuals whose major coronary event risks were the same as or lower than the average risk of statin-indication-unclear individuals. For major coronary and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease events, CAD-PRS improved C-statistics greater among statin-indicated or statin-indication-unclear than statin-not-indicated individuals. For atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease events, CAD-PRS added to the European evaluation and US equation resulted in a net reclassification improvement of 13.6% (95% CI, 11.8-15.5) and 14.7% (95% CI, 13.1-16.3) among statin-indicated, 10.8% (95% CI, 9.6-12.0) and 15.3% (95% CI, 13.2-17.5) among statin-indication-unclear, and 0.9% (95% CI, 0.6-1.3) and 3.6% (95% CI, 3.0-4.2) among statin-not-indicated individuals. CONCLUSIONS CAD-PRS may guide statin initiation as well as deferral among statin-indication-unclear or statin-indicated individuals as defined by the European and US guidelines. CAD-PRS had little clinical utility among statin-not-indicated individuals.
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Ryu YJ, Kim JW, Park SC, Hur YH, Kim HJ, Kim TH. Differential diagnosis of thyroid nodules using heterogeneity quantification software on ultrasound images: correlation with the Bethesda system and surgical pathology. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10288. [PMID: 38704392 PMCID: PMC11069538 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60881-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Ultrasonography (US)-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is the primary modality for evaluating thyroid nodules. However, in cases of atypia of undetermined significance (AUS) or follicular lesion of undetermined significance (FLUS), supplemental tests are necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Accordingly, we aimed to develop a non-invasive quantification software using the heterogeneity scores of thyroid nodules. This cross-sectional study retrospectively enrolled 188 patients who were categorized into four groups according to their diagnostic classification in the Bethesda system and surgical pathology [II-benign (B) (n = 24); III-B (n = 52); III-malignant (M) (n = 54); V/VI-M (n = 58)]. Heterogeneity scores were derived using an image pixel-based heterogeneity index, utilized as a coefficient of variation (CV) value, and analyzed across all US images. Differences in heterogeneity scores were compared using one-way analysis of variance with Tukey's test. Diagnostic accuracy was determined by calculating the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve. The results of this study indicated significant differences in mean heterogeneity scores between benign and malignant thyroid nodules, except in the comparison between III-M and V/VI-M nodules. Among malignant nodules, the Bethesda classification was not observed to be associated with mean heterogeneity scores. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between heterogeneity scores and the combined diagnostic category, which was based on the Bethesda system and surgical cytology grades (R = 0.639, p < 0.001). AUROC for heterogeneity scores showed the highest diagnostic performance (0.818; cut-off: 30.22% CV value) for differentiating the benign group (normal/II-B/III-B) from the malignant group (III-M/V&VI-M), with a diagnostic accuracy of 72.5% (161/122). Quantitative heterogeneity measurement of US images is a valuable non-invasive diagnostic tool for predicting the likelihood of malignancy in thyroid nodules, including AUS or FLUS.
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Lee SH, Lee SJ, Heo JH, Ahn SG, Doh JH, Shin S, Shim J, Her AY, Kim BG, Lim SW, Kwon TG, Lee KH, Kim D, Lee YJ, Yu HT, Kim TH, Shin DH, Pak HN, Kim JS. Optimal antithrombotic strategy in patients with atrial fibrillation beyond 1 year after drug-eluting stent implantation: Design and rationale of the randomized ADAPT AF-DES trial. Am Heart J 2024; 271:48-54. [PMID: 38401647 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2024.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Both anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapies are recommended after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Although contemporary guidelines recommend discontinuation of antiplatelet therapy 1 year after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation due to excessive bleeding risk, supporting randomized trials are still lacking. METHODS The ADAPT AF-DES trial is a multicenter, prospective, open-label, randomized, non-inferiority trial, enrolling 960 patients with AF with a CHA2DS2-VASc score > 1, who underwent PCI with DES implantation at least 12 months before enrollment. Eligible patients are randomly assigned to receive either non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant (NOAC) monotherapy or NOAC plus clopidogrel combination therapy. The primary outcome is net adverse clinical event (NACE) at 1 year after randomization, defined as a composite of all-cause death, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, stroke, systemic embolism, and major or clinically relevant non-major bleeding, as defined by the International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis criteria. We hypothesize that NOAC monotherapy would be non-inferior to NOAC plus clopidogrel combination therapy for NACE in patients with AF beyond 12 months after DES implantation. CONCLUSIONS The ADAPT AF-DES trial will evaluate the efficacy and safety of NOAC monotherapy versus NOAC plus clopidogrel combination therapy in patients with AF beyond 12 months after PCI with DES implantation. The ADAPT AF-DES trial will provide robust evidence for an optimal antithrombotic strategy in patients with AF after DES implantation. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION https://www. CLINICALTRIALS gov. Unique identifier: NCT04250116.
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Chung H, Seo J, Kim IS, Park CH, Kim JY, Min PK, Yoon YW, Lee BK, Kim TH, Hong BK, Rim SJ, Kwon HM, Choi EY. Determinants and effects of microvascular obstruction on serial change in left ventricular diastolic function after reperfused acute myocardial infarction. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1338940. [PMID: 38766305 PMCID: PMC11100411 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1338940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Although left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction is more related to functional capacity after acute myocardial infarction (AMI), the determinants of LV diastolic functional change after reperfused AMI remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of microvascular obstruction (MVO) on mid-term changes in LV diastolic function after reperfused AMI. Methods In a cohort of 72 AMI patients who underwent successful revascularization, echocardiography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging were repeated at 9-month intervals. The late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) amount, segmental extracellular volume fraction, global LV, and left atrial (LA) phasic functions, along with mitral inflow and tissue Doppler measurements, were repeated. Results Among the included patients, 31 (43%) patients had MVO. During the 9-month interval, LV ejection fraction (EF) and LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) were significantly improved in accordance with a decrease in LGE amount (from 18.2 to 10.3 g, p < 0.001) and LV mass. The deceleration time (DT) of early mitral inflow (188.6 ms-226.3 ms, p < 0.001) and LV elastance index (Ed; 0.133 1/ml-0.127 1/ml, p = 0.049) were significantly improved, but not in conventional diastolic functional indexes. Their improvements occurred in both groups; however, the degree was less prominent in patients with MVO. The degree of decrease in LGE amount and increase in LVEF was significantly correlated with improvement in LV-Ed or LA phasic function, but not with conventional diastolic functional indexes. Conclusions In patients with reperfused AMI, DT of early mitral inflow, phasic LA function, and LV-Ed were more sensitive diastolic functional indexes. The degree of their improvement was less prominent in patients with MVO.
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Han D, Park KT, Kim H, Kim TH, Jeong MK, Nam SI. Interaction between phytoplankton and heterotrophic bacteria in Arctic fjords during the glacial melting season as revealed by eDNA metabarcoding. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2024; 100:fiae059. [PMID: 38621717 PMCID: PMC11067963 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiae059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The hydrographic variability in the fjords of Svalbard significantly influences water mass properties, causing distinct patterns of microbial diversity and community composition between surface and subsurface layers. However, surveys on the phytoplankton-associated bacterial communities, pivotal to ecosystem functioning in Arctic fjords, are limited. This study investigated the interactions between phytoplankton and heterotrophic bacterial communities in Svalbard fjord waters through comprehensive eDNA metabarcoding with 16S and 18S rRNA genes. The 16S rRNA sequencing results revealed a homogenous community composition including a few dominant heterotrophic bacteria across fjord waters, whereas 18S rRNA results suggested a spatially diverse eukaryotic plankton distribution. The relative abundances of heterotrophic bacteria showed a depth-wise distribution. By contrast, the dominant phytoplankton populations exhibited variable distributions in surface waters. In the network model, the linkage of phytoplankton (Prasinophytae and Dinophyceae) to heterotrophic bacteria, particularly Actinobacteria, suggested the direct or indirect influence of bacterial contributions on the fate of phytoplankton-derived organic matter. Our prediction of the metabolic pathways for bacterial activity related to phytoplankton-derived organic matter suggested competitive advantages and symbiotic relationships between phytoplankton and heterotrophic bacteria. Our findings provide valuable insights into the response of phytoplankton-bacterial interactions to environmental changes in Arctic fjords.
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Kang DS, Yang PS, Kim D, Jang E, Yu HT, Kim TH, Sung JH, Pak HN, Lee MH, Lip GYH, Joung B. Racial Differences in Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Stroke: An Ecological Epidemiological Study. Thromb Haemost 2024. [PMID: 38423097 DOI: 10.1055/a-2278-8769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to evaluate racial differences in the incidence of stroke by conducting an ecological epidemiological study using UK Biobank and Korean nationwide data. METHODS This study used individual data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening and UK Biobank, which included participants who underwent health examinations between 2006 and 2010. We included 112,750 East Asians (50.7% men, mean age: 52.6 years) and 210,995 Caucasians (44.7% men, mean age: 55.0 years) who were not diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or cancer. The primary outcome was defined as a composite of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. RESULTS East Asians tended to have a lower body mass index (23.7 vs. 26.4 kg/m2, p < 0.001) and a higher proportion of participants who did not engage in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (49.6% vs. 10.7%, p < 0.001) than Caucasians. During the follow-up, East Asians had higher 5-year incidence rates (presented as per 1,000 person-years) for primary outcome (1.73 vs. 0.50; IR ratio [IRR]: 3.48, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.13-3.88), ischemic stroke (1.23 vs. 0.33; IRR: 3.70, 95% CI: 3.25-4.21), hemorrhagic stroke (0.56 vs. 0.18; IRR: 3.20, 95% CI: 2.67-3.84), and atrial fibrillation-related stroke (0.19 vs. 0.09; IRR: 2.04, 95% CI: 1.55-2.68). CONCLUSION Based on this ecological epidemiological study, racial differences in stroke incidence were robust to a variety of statistical analyses, regardless of the subtype. This suggests the need for region-specific approaches to stroke prevention.
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Moon JY, Kim SI, Ghods S, Park S, Kim S, Chang S, Jang HC, Choi JH, Kim JS, Bae SH, Whang D, Kim TH, Lee JH. Nondestructive Single-Atom-Thick Crystallographic Scanner via Sticky-Note-Like van der Waals Assembling-Disassembling. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2400091. [PMID: 38573312 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202400091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Crystallographic characteristics, including grain boundaries and crystallographic orientation of each grain, are crucial in defining the properties of two-dimensional materials (2DMs). To date, local microstructure analysis of 2DMs, which requires destructive and complex processes, is primarily used to identify unknown 2DM specimens, hindering the subsequent use of characterized samples. Here, a nondestructive large-area 2D crystallographic analytical method through sticky-note-like van der Waals (vdW) assembling-disassembling is presented. By the vdW assembling of veiled polycrystalline graphene (PCG) with a single-atom-thick single-crystalline graphene filter (SCG-filter), detailed crystallographic information of each grain in PCGs is visualized through a 2D Raman signal scan, which relies on the interlayer twist angle. The scanned PCGs are seamlessly separated from the SCG-filter using vdW disassembling, preserving their original condition. The remaining SCG-filter is then reused for additional crystallographic scans of other PCGs. It is believed that the methods can pave the way for advances in the crystallographic analysis of single-atom-thick materials, offering huge implications for the applications of 2DMs.
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Kim M, Uhm JS, Park JW, Bae S, Jung IH, Heo SJ, Kim D, Yu HT, Kim TH, Joung B, Lee MH. The Effects of Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation on Right Ventricular Function. Korean Circ J 2024; 54:203-217. [PMID: 38654567 PMCID: PMC11040267 DOI: 10.4070/kcj.2023.0312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The effects of radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) for atrial fibrillation (AF) on right ventricular (RV) function are not well known. METHODS Patients who underwent RFCA for AF and underwent pre- and post-procedural echocardiography were enrolled consecutively. Fractional area change (FAC), RV free-wall longitudinal strain (RVFWSL), and RV 4-chamber strain including the ventricular septum (RV4CSL) were measured. Changes in FAC, RVFWSL, and RV4CSL before and after RFCA were compared among paroxysmal AF (PAF), persistent AF (PeAF), and long-standing persistent AF (LSPeAF) groups. RESULTS A total of 164 participants (74 PAF, 47 PeAF, and 43 LSPeAF; age, 60.8 ± 9.8 years; men, 74.4%) was enrolled. The patients with PeAF and LSPeAF had worse RV4CSL (p<0.001) and RVFWSL (p<0.001) than those with PAF and reference values. Improvements in RVFWSL and RV4CSL after RFCA were significant in the PeAF group compared with the PAF and LSPeAF groups (ΔRV4CSL, 8.4% [5.1, 11.6] in PeAF vs. 1.0% [-1.0, 4.1] in PAF, 1.9% [-0.2, 4.4] in LSPeAF, p<0.001; ΔRVFWSL, 9.0% [6.9, 11.5] in PeAF vs. 0.9% [-1.4, 4.9] in PAF, 1.0% [-1.0, 3.6] in LSPeAF, p<0.001). In patients without recurrence, improvements in RVFWSL and RV4CSL after RFCA were significant in the PeAF group compared to the LSPeAF group. CONCLUSIONS RV systolic function is more impaired in patients with PeAF and LSPeAF than in those with PAF. RV systolic function is more improved after RFCA in patients with PeAF than in those with PAF or LSPeAF.
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Choi Y, Lee MY, Kim TH. Evaluating total organic carbon as an indicator for organic pollutant management in the marine environment: A case study on wastewater treatment plant effluent input into the coastal ocean. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 919:170704. [PMID: 38346654 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
South Korea recently shifted its assessment indicator for organic matter in terrestrial environments from chemical oxygen demand (COD) to total organic carbon (TOC) due to the increase in refractory organic carbon levels. However, in the marine environment, where the inflow of refractory organic matter is also on the rise, COD is still used in some instances to assess organic pollution in contaminated areas. Our findings reveal that the main source of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) is terrestrial-derived refractory organic carbon, which enters through nearby wastewater treatment plant (WWPT) outlets. The low oxidation efficiency of COD to TOC (approximately 4 %) prevents it from being an accurate measure of terrestrial-derived refractory DOC. Contrasting results were observed when comparing the organic pollution index (OPI), which we calculated using TOC, with the currently employed water quality index (WQI) for ocean water quality evaluation, particularly in areas influenced by WWPTs. This discrepancy arises because the WQI primarily evaluates autochthonous organic carbon through chlorophyll measurements, whereas the OPI incorporates both autochthonous and allochthonous organic carbon through TOC measurements. Our findings demonstrate that TOC can effectively replace COD as an organic pollution indicator in marine environments.
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Jung YH, Lee HY, Lee BK, Choi BK, Kim TH, Kim JW, Kim HC, Kim HJ, Jeung KW. Feasibility of Magnetic Resonance-Based Conductivity Imaging as a Tool to Estimate the Severity of Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Injury in the First Hours After Cardiac Arrest. Neurocrit Care 2024; 40:538-550. [PMID: 37353670 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-023-01776-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early identification of the severity of hypoxic-ischemic brain injury (HIBI) after cardiac arrest can be used to help plan appropriate subsequent therapy. We evaluated whether conductivity of cerebral tissue measured using magnetic resonance-based conductivity imaging (MRCI), which provides contrast derived from the concentration and mobility of ions within the imaged tissue, can reflect the severity of HIBI in the early hours after cardiac arrest. METHODS Fourteen minipigs were resuscitated after 5 min or 12 min of untreated cardiac arrest. MRCI was performed at baseline and at 1 h and 3.5 h after return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). RESULTS In both groups, the conductivity of cerebral tissue significantly increased at 1 h after ROSC compared with that at baseline (P = 0.031 and 0.016 in the 5-min and 12-min groups, respectively). The increase was greater in the 12-min group, resulting in significantly higher conductivity values in the 12-min group (P = 0.030). At 3.5 h after ROSC, the conductivity of cerebral tissue in the 12-min group remained increased (P = 0.022), whereas that in the 5-min group returned to its baseline level. CONCLUSIONS The conductivity of cerebral tissue was increased in the first hours after ROSC, and the increase was more prominent and lasted longer in the 12-min group than in the 5-min group. Our findings suggest the promising potential of MRCI as a tool to estimate the severity of HIBI in the early hours after cardiac arrest.
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Ha T, Kang S, Yeo NY, Kim TH, Kim WJ, Yi BK, Jang JW, Park SW. Status of MyHealthWay and Suggestions for Widespread Implementation, Emphasizing the Utilization and Practical Use of Personal Medical Data. Healthc Inform Res 2024; 30:103-112. [PMID: 38755101 PMCID: PMC11098772 DOI: 10.4258/hir.2024.30.2.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In the Fourth Industrial Revolution, there is a focus on managing diverse medical data to improve healthcare and prevent disease. The challenges include tracking detailed medical records across multiple institutions and the necessity of linking domestic public medical entities for efficient data sharing. This study explores MyHealthWay, a Korean healthcare platform designed to facilitate the integration and transfer of medical data from various sources, examining its development, importance, and legal implications. METHODS To evaluate the management status and utilization of MyHealthWay, we analyzed data types, security, legal issues, domestic versus international issues, and infrastructure. Additionally, we discussed challenges such as resource and infrastructure constraints, regulatory hurdles, and future considerations for data management. RESULTS The secure sharing of medical information via MyHealthWay can reduce the distance between patients and healthcare facilities, fostering personalized care and self-management of health. However, this approach faces legal challenges, particularly relating to data standardization and access to personal health information. Legal challenges in data standardization and access, particularly for secondary uses such as research, necessitate improved regulations. There is a crucial need for detailed governmental guidelines and clear data ownership standards at institutional levels. CONCLUSIONS This report highlights the role of Korea's MyHealthWay, which was launched in 2023, in transforming healthcare through systematic data integration. Challenges include data privacy and legal complexities, and there is a need for data standardization and individual empowerment in health data management within a systematic medical big data framework.
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Jin Z, Hwang T, Kim D, Lim B, Kwon OS, Kim S, Kim MH, Park JW, Yu HT, Kim TH, Uhm JS, Joung B, Lee MH, Pak HN. Anti- and pro-fibrillatory effects of pulmonary vein isolation gaps in human atrial fibrillation digital twins. NPJ Digit Med 2024; 7:81. [PMID: 38532181 DOI: 10.1038/s41746-024-01075-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Although pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) gaps and extrapulmonary vein triggers contribute to recurrence after atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation, their precise mechanisms remain unproven. Our study assessed the impact of PVI gaps on rhythm outcomes using a human AF digital twin. We included 50 patients (76.0% with persistent AF) who underwent catheter ablation with a realistic AF digital twin by integrating computed tomography and electroanatomical mapping. We evaluated the final rhythm status, including AF and atrial tachycardia (AT), across 600 AF episodes, considering factors including PVI level, PVI gap number, and pacing locations. Our findings revealed that antral PVI had a significantly lower ratio of AF at the final rhythm (28% vs. 56%, p = 0.002) than ostial PVI. Increasing PVI gap numbers correlated with an increased ratio of AF at the final rhythm (p < 0.001). Extra-PV induction yielded a higher ratio of AF at the final rhythm than internal PV induction (77.5% vs. 59.0%, p < 0.001). In conclusion, our human AF digital twin model helped assess AF maintenance mechanisms. Clinical trial registration: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov ; Unique identifier: NCT02138695.
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Kang DS, Yang PS, Kim D, Jang E, Yu HT, Kim TH, Sung JH, Pak HN, Lee MH, Lip GYH, Joung B. Racial Differences in Bleeding Risk: An Ecological Epidemiological Study Comparing Korea and United Kingdom Subjects. Thromb Haemost 2024. [PMID: 38359877 DOI: 10.1055/a-2269-1123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to evaluate racial differences in bleeding incidence by conducting an ecological epidemiological study using data from Korea and the United Kingdom. METHODS We included healthy participants from the Korean National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening and the UK Biobank who underwent health examinations between 2006 and 2010 and had no comorbidities or history of medication use. Finally, 112,750 East Asians (50.7% men, mean age 52.6 years) and 210,995 Caucasians (44.7% men, mean age 55.0 years) were analyzed. The primary outcome was composed of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) and bleeding from the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and genitourinary systems. RESULTS During the follow-up, primary outcome events occurred in 2,110 East Asians and in 6,515 Caucasians. East Asians had a 38% lower 5-year incidence rate compared with Caucasians (3.88 vs. 6.29 per 1,000 person-years; incidence rate ratio [IRR]: 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.59-0.65). East Asians showed a lower incidence of major bleeding (IRR: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.81-0.91), bleeding from the gastrointestinal (IRR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.49-0.56), and genitourinary systems (IRR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.44-0.53) compared with Caucasians. The incidence rates of ICH (IRR: 3.20, 95% CI: 2.67-3.84) and bleeding from the respiratory system (IRR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.11-1.47) were higher in East Asians. Notably, East Asians consuming alcohol ≥3 times/week showed a higher incidence of the primary outcome than Caucasians (IRR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.01-1.25). CONCLUSION This ecological study revealed significant racial differences in bleeding incidence, influenced by anatomical sites and lifestyle habits, underscoring the need for tailored approaches in bleeding management based on race.
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Kim CH, Kim TH, Lee H, Kim MS, Heo W, Yoo KJ, Cho BK, Song SW. One-year outcomes of total arch replacement and frozen elephant trunk using the E-vita Open NEO. Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 2024; 65:ezae017. [PMID: 38238991 DOI: 10.1093/ejcts/ezae017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In this cohort study, we aimed to assess the 1-year clinical outcomes of using the E-vita Open NEO™ hybrid prosthesis for total arch replacement with frozen elephant trunk (FET) to repair extensive aortic pathologies. METHODS We reviewed individuals who underwent thoracic aortic surgery between April 2021 and March 2023 from the Gangnam Severance Aortic Registry. Exclusion criteria included ascending aortic replacement, 1 or 2 partial arch replacement, descending aortic replacement and total arch replacement without an FET. Finally, all consecutive patients who underwent total arch replacement and FET with E-vita Open NEO for aortic arch pathologies between April 2021 and March 2023 were included in this cohort study. The patients were divided into 3 groups based on their pathology: acute aortic dissection, chronic aortic dissection and thoracic aortic aneurysm. The primary end point was in-hospital mortality. The secondary end points during the postoperative period comprised stroke, spinal cord injury and redo sternotomy for bleeding. Additionally, the secondary end points during the follow-up period included the 1-year survival rate, 1-year freedom from all aortic procedures and 1-year freedom from unplanned aortic interventions. RESULTS The study included 167 patients in total: 92 patients (55.1%) with acute aortic dissection, 20 patients (12.0%) with chronic aortic dissection and 55 patients (32.9%) with thoracic aortic aneurysm. The in-hospital mortality was 1.8% (n = 3). Strokes occurred in 1.8% (n = 3) of the patients, spinal cord injury in 1.8% (n = 3) and redo sternotomy for bleeding was performed in 3.0% (n = 5). There were no significant differences between the pathological groups. The median follow-up period (quartile 1-quartile 3) was 198 (37-373) days, with 1-year survival rates of 95.9%. At 1 year, the freedom from all aortic procedures and unplanned aortic interventions were 90.3% and 92.0%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The 1-year clinical outcomes of total arch replacement with FET using the E-vita Open NEO were favourable. Long-term follow-up is required to evaluate the durability of the FET.
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Han M, Hwang S, Agusbudiman A, Lee JM, Lee KB, Kim BC, Heo DH, Kim TH. Digital coincidence counting with 4πβ(PPC)-γ for the standardization of 60Co. Appl Radiat Isot 2024; 205:111173. [PMID: 38211394 DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2024.111173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
A 4πβ(PPC)-γ coincidence system has been made at KRISS based on a digital DAQ. 60Co sources were measured to verify the system. The maximum detection efficiency for beta particles was estimated to be 96.7 %. Massic activities for sample sources had 0.005 % of the sample variability error, which was well within the expanded standard uncertainty of 0.54 % (k = 2).
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Jung M, Yang PS, Kim D, Sung JH, Jang E, Yu HT, Kim TH, Uhm JS, Pak HN, Lee MH, Joung B. Multimorbidity in atrial fibrillation for clinical implications using the Charlson Comorbidity Index. Int J Cardiol 2024; 398:131605. [PMID: 38000669 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2023.131605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Predicting survival in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with comorbidities is challenging. This study aimed to assess multimorbidity in AF patients using the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and its clinical implications. METHODS We analyzed 451,368 participants from the Korea National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening cohort (2002-2013) without prior AF diagnoses. Patients were categorized into new-onset AF and non-AF groups, with a high CCI defined as ≥4 points. Antithrombotic treatment and outcomes (all-cause death, stroke, major bleeding, and heart failure [HF] hospitalization) were evaluated over 9 years. RESULTS In total, 9.5% of the enrolled patients had high CCI. During follow-up, 12,241 patients developed new-onset AF. Among AF patients, antiplatelet drug use increased significantly in those with high CCI (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.05, 95%confidence interval [CI] 1.02-1.08, P < .001). However, anticoagulants were significantly less prescribed in patients with high CCI (OR 0.97, 95%CI 0.95-0.99, P = .012). Incidence of adverse events (all-cause death, stroke, major bleeding, HF hospitalization) progressively increased in this order: low CCI without AF, high CCI without AF, low CCI with AF, and high CCI with AF (all P < .001). Furthermore, high CCI with AF had a significantly higher risk compared to low CCI without AF (all-cause death, adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 2.52, 95% CI 2.37-2.68, P < .001; stroke, aHR 1.43, 95% CI 1.29-1.58, P < .001; major bleeding, aHR 1.14, 95% CI 1.04-1.26, P = .007; HF hospitalization, aHR 4.75, 95% CI 4.03-5.59, P < .001). CONCLUSIONS High CCI predicted increased antiplatelet use and reduced oral anticoagulant prescription. AF was associated with higher risks of all-cause death, stroke, major bleeding, and HF hospitalization compared to high CCI.
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Mahadik S, Surendran S, Moon DJ, Kim JY, Janani G, Jesudass SC, Veeramani K, Choi H, Shanmugapriya S, Kim IG, Jung P, Park YI, Heo J, Kim TH, Hong K, Sim U. Structurally engineered highly efficient electrocatalytic performance of 3-dimensional Mo/Ni chalcogenides for boosting overall water splitting performance. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141233. [PMID: 38266882 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Hydrogen production from water splitting combined with renewable electricity can provide a viable solution to the energy crisis. A novel MoS2/NiS2/Ni3S4 heterostructure is designed as a bifunctional electrocatalyst by facile hydrothermal method to demonstrate excellent electrocatalytic performance towards overall water splitting applications. MoS2/NiS2/Ni3S4 heterostructure necessitates a low overpotential of 81 mV and 210 mV to attain a current density of 10 mA cm-2 during the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), respectively. Consequently, the MoS2/NiS2/Ni3S4 heterostructure-based electrolyzer shows a low cell voltage of 1.54 V at 10 mA cm-2. The present work highlights the significance of the heterostructure configuration of transition metal sulfide-based electrocatalysts for electrochemical overall water splitting applications.
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Bae MI, Kim TH, Yoon HJ, Song SW, Min N, Lee J, Ham SY. Myocardial Injury after Non-Cardiac Surgery in Patients Who Underwent Open Repair for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: A Retrospective Study. J Clin Med 2024; 13:959. [PMID: 38398272 PMCID: PMC10888606 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13040959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myocardial injury after non-cardiac surgery (MINS) has been known to be associated with mortality in various surgical patients; however, its prognostic role in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) open repair remains underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the role of MINS as a predictor of mortality in patients who underwent AAA open repair. METHODS This retrospective study investigated 352 patients who underwent open repair for non-ruptured AAA. The predictors of 30-day and 1-year mortalities were investigated using logistic regression analysis. RESULTS MINS was diagnosed in 41% of the patients after AAA open repair in this study. MINS was an independent risk factor of 30-day mortality (odds ratio [OR]: 10.440, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.278-85.274, p = 0.029) and 1-year mortality (OR: 5.189, 95% CI: 1.357-19.844, p = 0.016). Kaplan-Meier survival curves demonstrated significantly lower overall survival rates in patients with MINS compared to those without MINS (p = 0.003). CONCLUSION This study revealed that MINS is a common complication after AAA open repair and is an independent risk factor of 30-day and 1-year mortalities. Patients with MINS have lower overall survival rates than those without MINS.
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Park SW, Yeo NY, Kang S, Ha T, Kim TH, Lee D, Kim D, Choi S, Kim M, Lee D, Kim D, Kim WJ, Lee SJ, Heo YJ, Moon DH, Han SS, Kim Y, Choi HS, Oh DK, Lee SY, Park M, Lim CM, Heo J. Early Prediction of Mortality for Septic Patients Visiting Emergency Room Based on Explainable Machine Learning: A Real-World Multicenter Study. J Korean Med Sci 2024; 39:e53. [PMID: 38317451 PMCID: PMC10843974 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2024.39.e53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worldwide, sepsis is the leading cause of death in hospitals. If mortality rates in patients with sepsis can be predicted early, medical resources can be allocated efficiently. We constructed machine learning (ML) models to predict the mortality of patients with sepsis in a hospital emergency department. METHODS This study prospectively collected nationwide data from an ongoing multicenter cohort of patients with sepsis identified in the emergency department. Patients were enrolled from 19 hospitals between September 2019 and December 2020. For acquired data from 3,657 survivors and 1,455 deaths, six ML models (logistic regression, support vector machine, random forest, extreme gradient boosting [XGBoost], light gradient boosting machine, and categorical boosting [CatBoost]) were constructed using fivefold cross-validation to predict mortality. Through these models, 44 clinical variables measured on the day of admission were compared with six sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) components (PaO2/FIO2 [PF], platelets (PLT), bilirubin, cardiovascular, Glasgow Coma Scale score, and creatinine). The confidence interval (CI) was obtained by performing 10,000 repeated measurements via random sampling of the test dataset. All results were explained and interpreted using Shapley's additive explanations (SHAP). RESULTS Of the 5,112 participants, CatBoost exhibited the highest area under the curve (AUC) of 0.800 (95% CI, 0.756-0.840) using clinical variables. Using the SOFA components for the same patient, XGBoost exhibited the highest AUC of 0.678 (95% CI, 0.626-0.730). As interpreted by SHAP, albumin, lactate, blood urea nitrogen, and international normalization ratio were determined to significantly affect the results. Additionally, PF and PLTs in the SOFA component significantly influenced the prediction results. CONCLUSION Newly established ML-based models achieved good prediction of mortality in patients with sepsis. Using several clinical variables acquired at the baseline can provide more accurate results for early predictions than using SOFA components. Additionally, the impact of each variable was identified.
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Kang MS, Son IS, Kim TH, Lee SH, You KH, Lee WM, Hyun JT, Park HJ. Paravertebral Nerve Block for Procedural Pain in Percutaneous Vertebroplasty. Clin J Pain 2024; 40:92-98. [PMID: 37982510 DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0000000000001176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to unidimensionally measure procedural pain at each percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) stage and evaluate the effectiveness of paravertebral nerve block (PVNB) in reducing procedural pain. METHODS A retrospective study of prospectively collected data was conducted on 66 patients who underwent PVP for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. The patients were divided into 2 groups: group A (fluoroscopic-guided PVNB; 5 cm 3 of 0.75% ropivacaine on each side) and group B (local anesthesia). To investigate procedural pain associated with PVP, the visual analog scale score was assessed at each surgical stage: before the incision (stage 1), transpedicular approach (stage 2), and polymethylmethacrylate cement injection (stage 3). After the procedure, patients were asked about their surgical experience and satisfaction using the Iowa Satisfaction with Anesthesia Scale. Periprocedural complications were also recorded. RESULTS A total of 63 patients (78.65 y of age) were finally enrolled: 30 from group A and 33 from group B. In both groups, a significant ≥2-point increase in procedural pain was observed during PVP compared with that during stage 1 ( P < 0.001). In stages 2 and 3, the pain intensity was significantly lower in group A ( P < 0.001). Upon discharge, the visual analog scale score improved in all groups; however, the Iowa Satisfaction with Anesthesia Scale score was significantly higher in group A ( P < 0.001). There was no difference in periprocedural complications between the two groups ( P = 0.743). CONCLUSION PVP causes significant procedural pain, and PVNB is a potentially effective modality for enhancing patient satisfaction and reducing procedural pain.
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Ding J, Kim TH, Ma G, Yao X. Intrinsic signal optoretinography of dark adaptation abnormality due to rod photoreceptor degeneration. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2024; 249:10024. [PMID: 38463390 PMCID: PMC10911128 DOI: 10.3389/ebm.2024.10024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This research aims to investigate the potential of using intrinsic optical signal (IOS) optoretinography (ORG) to objectively detect dark adaptation (DA) abnormalities related to rod photoreceptor degeneration. Functional optical coherence tomography (OCT) was employed in both wild-type (WT) and retinal degeneration 10 (rd10) mice to conduct this assessment. Dynamic OCT measurements captured the changes in retinal thickness and reflectance from light-to-dark transition. Comparative analysis revealed significant IOS alterations within the outer retina. Specifically, a reduction in thickness from external limiting membrane (ELM) peak to retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) peak was observed (WT: 1.13 ± 0.69 µm, 30 min DA; rd10: 2.64 ± 0.86 µm, 30 min DA), as well as a decrease in the intensity of the inner segment ellipsoid zone (EZ) in 30 min DA compared to light adaptation (LA). The reduction of relative EZ intensity was notable in rd10 after 5 min DA and in WT after 15 min DA, with a distinguishable difference between rd10 and WT after 10 min DA. Furthermore, our findings indicated a significant decrease in the relative intensity of the hypo-reflective band between EZ and RPE in rd10 retinas during DA, which primarily corresponds to the outer segment (OS) region. In conclusion, the observed DA-IOS abnormalities, including changes in ELM-RPE thickness, EZ, and OS intensity, hold promise as differentiators between WT and rd10 mice before noticeable morphological abnormalities occur. These findings suggest the potential of this non-invasive imaging technique for the early detection of dysfunction in retinal photoreceptors.
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Alam K, Jang W, Jeong G, Ser J, Kang D, Kim TH, Cho H. Synthesis of High-Entropy Alloys with a Tailored Composition and Phase Structure Using a Single Configurable Target. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:1362-1374. [PMID: 38222601 PMCID: PMC10785334 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c07721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Previously, refractory high-entropy alloys (HEAs) with high crystallinity were synthesized using a configurable target without heat treatment. This study builds upon prior investigations to develop nonrefractory elemental HEAs with low crystallinity using a novel target system. Different targets with various elemental compositions, i.e., Co20Cr20Ni20Mn20Mo20 (target 1), Co30Cr15Ni25Mn15Mo15 (target 2), and Co15Cr25Cu20Mn20Ni20 (target 3), are designed to modify the phase structure. The elemental composition is varied to ensure face-centered cubic (FCC) or body-centered cubic (BCC) phase stabilization. In target 1, the FCC and BCC phases coexist, whereas targets 2 and 3 are characterized by a single FCC phase. Thin films based on targets 1 and 2 exhibit crystalline phases followed by annealing, as indicated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses. In contrast, target 3 yields crystalline thin films without any heat treatment. The thin-film coatings are classified based on the atomic size difference (δ). The δ value for the target with the elemental composition CoCrMoMnNi is 9.7, i.e., ≥6.6, corresponding to an HEA with an amorphous phase. However, the annealed thin film is considered a multiprincipal elemental alloy. In contrast, δ for the CoCrCuMnNi HEA is 5, i.e., ≤6.6, upon the substitution of Mo with Cu, and a solid solution phase is formed without any heat treatment. Thus, the degree of crystallinity can be controlled through heat treatment and the manipulation of δ in the absence of heat treatment. The XRD results clarify the crystallinity and phase structure, indicating the presence of FCC or a combination of FCC and BCC phases. The outcomes are consistent with those obtained through the analysis of the valence electron concentration based on X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Furthermore, a selected area electron diffraction analysis confirms the presence of both amorphous and crystalline structures in the HEA thin films. Additionally, phase evolution and segregation are observed at 500 °C.
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Lee YS, Yang PS, Jang E, Kim D, Yu HT, Kim TH, Uhm JS, Sung JH, Pak HN, Lee MH, Joung B. Association between Obesity and Heart Failure and Related Atrial Fibrillation: Patient-Level Data Comparisons of Two Cohort Studies. Yonsei Med J 2024; 65:10-18. [PMID: 38154475 PMCID: PMC10774652 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2023.0264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) frequently coexist, with over 50% patients with HF having AF, while one-third of those with AF develop HF. Differences in obesity-mediated association between HF and HF-related AF among Asians and Europeans were evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using the Korean National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening (K-NHIS-HealS) cohort and the UK Biobank, we included 394801 Korean and 476883 UK adults, respectively aged 40-70 years. The incidence and risk of HF were evaluated based on body mass index (BMI). RESULTS The proportion of obese individuals was significantly higher in the UK Biobank cohort than in the K-NHIS-HealS cohort (24.2% vs. 2.7%, p<0.001). The incidence of HF and HF-related AF was higher among the obese in the UK than in Korea. The risk of HF was higher among the British than in Koreans, with adjusted hazard ratios of 1.82 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.30-2.55] in K-NHIS-HealS and 2.00 (95% CI, 1.69-2.37) in UK Biobank in obese participants (p for interaction <0.001). A 5-unit increase in BMI was associated with a 44% greater risk of HF-related AF in the UK Biobank cohort (p<0.001) but not in the K-NHIS-HealS cohort (p=0.277). CONCLUSION Obesity was associated with an increased risk of HF and HF-related AF in both Korean and UK populations. The higher incidence in the UK population was likely due to the higher proportion of obese individuals.
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Kim TH, Lee HS, Choi YR, Bak GG, Kim SH, Kim SG. Treatment of intractable septic ankle arthritis with a continuous closed irrigation system. Jt Dis Relat Surg 2024; 35:3-11. [PMID: 38108160 PMCID: PMC10746910 DOI: 10.52312/jdrs.2023.1224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a continuous closed irrigation system (CCIS) after open debridement for patients with intractable septic ankle arthritis. PATIENTS AND METHODS The retrospective study analyzed the intractable septic arthritis of 12 (6 males, 6 females; mean age: 64.1±14.7 years; range, 33 to 80 years) patients managed by CCIS between July 2015 and July 2020. All patients had previously undergone operations to treat septic ankle arthritis without resolution of the infection. After open debridement, the CCIS was usually equipped with two outflow tubes and one inflow tube. Saline inflow was about 1 L per day. RESULTS The mean follow-up period was 30.8±14.9 (range, 15 to 70) months. The CCIS was maintained for a mean of 5.1±2.1 (range, 3 to 7) days. The mean number of operations the patients had previously undergone was 2.83±1.5 (range, 1 to 6). For 11 (91.6%) out of 12 patients, infection did not recur after one-time CCIS, and laboratory test results remained normal. Six patients had previously undergone total ankle replacement arthroplasty. These patients underwent antibiotics-mixed cement arthroplasty after CCIS. For five of six with infected total ankle replacement arthroplasty, infection did not recur after CCIS. However, one patient without the removal of both implants experienced recurrence at the same site after four postoperative months. In the reoperation, after the removal of both implants and the application of antibiotics-mixed cement arthroplasty, the infection was cleared. CONCLUSION Use of CCIS after open debridement for intractable septic ankle arthritis is a good treatment option since it is relatively simple and safe, with good results.
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Kim M, Kim TH, Kim D, Lee D, Kim D, Heo J, Kang S, Ha T, Kim J, Moon DH, Heo Y, Kim WJ, Lee SJ, Kim Y, Park SW, Han SS, Choi HS. In-Advance Prediction of Pressure Ulcers via Deep-Learning-Based Robust Missing Value Imputation on Real-Time Intensive Care Variables. J Clin Med 2023; 13:36. [PMID: 38202043 PMCID: PMC10780209 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13010036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Pressure ulcers (PUs) are a prevalent skin disease affecting patients with impaired mobility and in high-risk groups. These ulcers increase patients' suffering, medical expenses, and burden on medical staff. This study introduces a clinical decision support system and verifies it for predicting real-time PU occurrences within the intensive care unit (ICU) by using MIMIC-IV and in-house ICU data. We develop various machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models for predicting PU occurrences in real time using the MIMIC-IV and validate using the MIMIC-IV and Kangwon National University Hospital (KNUH) dataset. To address the challenge of missing values in time series, we propose a novel recurrent neural network model, GRU-D++. This model outperformed other experimental models by achieving the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.945 for the on-time prediction and AUROC of 0.912 for 48h in-advance prediction. Furthermore, in the external validation with the KNUH dataset, the fine-tuned GRU-D++ model demonstrated superior performances, achieving an AUROC of 0.898 for on-time prediction and an AUROC of 0.897 for 48h in-advance prediction. The proposed GRU-D++, designed to consider temporal information and missing values, stands out for its predictive accuracy. Our findings suggest that this model can significantly alleviate the workload of medical staff and prevent the worsening of patient conditions by enabling timely interventions for PUs in the ICU.
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Yoo JG, Kim TH, Cha HR, Kim YD, Lee JG. Design of High-Remanence Nd-Fe-B Hot-Pressed Magnets by Manipulating Coercivity of Hydrogenation-Disproportionation-Desorption-Recombination Treated Anisotropic Precursors. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:7599. [PMID: 38138741 PMCID: PMC10744549 DOI: 10.3390/ma16247599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
We propose a method of manipulating the coercivity of anisotropic hydrogenation-disproportionation-desorption-recombination (HDDR) powders to fabricate high-remanence and fine-grained Nd-Fe-B magnets using only hot-pressing without a subsequent hot-deformation process. By reducing the Nd content of anisotropic HDDR precursors such that their coercivity (Hcj) is lowered, the c-axis of each HDDR particle is well-aligned parallel to the direction of the applied magnetic field during the magnetic alignment step. This is because the magnetic repulsive force between adjacent particles, determined by their remanent magnetization, decreases as a result of the low coercivity of each particle. Therefore, after hot-pressing the low-Hcj HDDR powders, a significantly higher remanence (11.2 kG) is achieved in the bulk than that achieved by hot-pressing the high-Hcj HDDR powders (8.2 kG). It is clearly confirmed by the large-scale electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analysis that the alignment of the c-axis of each anisotropic HDDR particle in the bulk is improved when low-Hcj HDDR powders are used to fabricate hot-pressed magnets. This coercivity manipulation of HDDR powders can be a helpful method to expand the use of HDDR powders in fabricating anisotropic Nd-Fe-B bulk magnets.
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Yoon HJ, Kim TH, Ko DE, Song JW, Min N, Ham SY. Postoperative Hypoalbuminemia as a Predictor of Acute Kidney Injury After Open Repair of Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm. World J Surg 2023; 47:3382-3393. [PMID: 37730902 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-023-07178-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perioperative hypoalbuminemia has a prognostic effect on mortality and morbidity in various cohorts. Patients undergoing open repair of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rAAA) are at a high risk of hypoalbuminemia due to bleeding and underlying diseases. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the predictive value of immediate postoperative hypoalbuminemia for the risk for acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients undergoing open rAAA repair. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed 143 patients who underwent open rAAA repair between January 2008 and May 2022. The patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of postoperative AKI. The perioperative serum albumin levels of the two groups were compared. The patients were further divided into two groups based on the median immediate postoperative albumin level (2.4 g/dL). The incidence of AKI was compared between the two groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the predictors of postoperative AKI. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were used to evaluate potential of AKI and albumin level as prognostic factors for mortality. RESULTS Immediate postoperative serum albumin was significantly lower in the AKI group than in the non-AKI group (2.11 ± 0.62 g/dL vs. 2.59 ± 0.62 g/dL, p < 0.001). The incidence of postoperative AKI was significantly higher in patients with albumin ≤ 2.4 g/dL than in patients with albumin > 2.4 g/dL (53.8% vs. 27.7%, p = 0.002). Immediate postoperative albumin level was an independent predictor of AKI (Odds ratio [OR], 0.310; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.165-0.583, p < 0.001) and 1-year mortality (OR, 0.230; 95% CI 0.098-0.542, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Immediate postoperative hypoalbuminemia was associated with postoperative AKI and mortality in patients with rAAA.
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Adejumo T, Ma G, Son T, Kim TH, Le D, Dadzie AK, Ahmed S, Yao X. Adaptive vessel tracing and segmentation in OCT enables the robust detection of wall-to-lumen ratio abnormalities in 5xFAD mice. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2023; 14:6350-6360. [PMID: 38420326 PMCID: PMC10898580 DOI: 10.1364/boe.504317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The wall-to-lumen ratio (WLR) of retinal blood vessels promises a sensitive marker for the physiological assessment of eye conditions. However, in vivo measurement of vessel wall thickness and lumen diameter is still technically challenging, hindering the wide application of WLR in research and clinical settings. In this study, we demonstrate the feasibility of using optical coherence tomography (OCT) as one practical method for in vivo quantification of WLR in the retina. Based on three-dimensional vessel tracing, lateral en face and axial B-scan profiles of individual vessels were constructed. By employing adaptive depth segmentation that adjusts to the individual positions of each blood vessel for en face OCT projection, the vessel wall thickness and lumen diameter could be reliably quantified. A comparative study of control and 5xFAD mice confirmed WLR as a sensitive marker of the eye condition.
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Kong MG, Suh J, Lee B, Park HW, Park SY, Moon I, Choi HO, Seo HS, Cho YH, Lee NH, Jang HJ, Kim TH, Kwon SW, Park SD, Oh PC, Moon J, Lee K, Kang WC. Hemo-metabolic impairment in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: Data from the INTERSTELLAR registry. Cardiol J 2023:VM/OJS/J/93926. [PMID: 37964646 DOI: 10.5603/cj.93926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Not only hemo-dynamic (HD) factors but also hemo-metabolic (HM) risk factors reflecting multi-organ injuries are considered as important prognostic factors in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, studies regarding HM risk factors in STEMI patients are currently limited. METHOD Under analysis were 1,524 patients with STEMI who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention in the INTERSTELLAR registry. Patients were divided into HM (≥ 2 risk factors) and non-HM impairment groups. The primary outcome was in-hospital all-cause mortality, and the secondary outcome was 1-year all-cause mortality. RESULTS Of 1,524 patients, 214 (14.0%) and 1,310 (86.0%) patients were in the HM and non-HM impairment groups, respectively. Patients with HM impairment had a higher incidence of in-hospital mortality than those without (24.3% vs. 2.7%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for confounders, HM impairment was independently associated with in-hospital mortality (inverse probability of treatment weighting [IPTW]-adjusted odds ratio: 1.81, 95% confidence interval: 1.08-3.14). In the third door-to-balloon (DTB) time tertile (≥ 82 min), HM impairment was strongly associated with in-hospital mortality. In the first DTB time tertile ( < 62 min), indicating relatively rapid revascularization, HM impairment was consistently associated with increased in-hospital mortality. CONCLUSIONS Hemo-metabolic impairment is significantly associated with increased risk of in-hospital and 1-year mortality in patients with STEMI. It remains a significant prognostic factor, regardless of DTB time.
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Kim MS, Kim TH, Lee H, Song SW, Yoo KJ. Tailored treatment modality in acute type A intramural hematoma. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2023; 166:1400-1410. [PMID: 35221028 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcvs.2022.01.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Intramural hematoma may be generated by a minimal intimal tear. Most surgeries for acute type A intramural hematoma are performed on the proximal aorta alone regardless of the intimal tear site. Under the assumption that major adverse aortic events (MAAEs) would be related to the location of primary intimal tear, we reviewed preoperative computed tomography scan findings. METHODS Sixty patients with acute type A intramural hematoma who underwent surgery from January 2008 to December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. The maximal diameter, maximal thickness of the intramural hematoma, and hematoma thickness ratio of the ascending and descending aortae were measured. MAAEs were defined as newly developed aortic dissection, rupture, newly developed penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU), enlargement of the PAU, and aortic death. RESULTS The number of patients with PAU in the descending aorta (dPAU) was significantly higher in the MAAE (+) group. The MAAE (+) group showed lower measurements of the ascending aorta and higher measurements of the descending aorta than the MAAE (-) group. In the univariate analysis, dPAU, hematoma thickness ratio of the ascending and descending aortae, and descending aorta hematoma thickness >8.58 mm were risk factors of MAAE. Intimal tear noted intraoperatively and ascending aorta hematoma thickness >10.25 mm were protective factors of MAAE. CONCLUSIONS Aortopathies (ie, PAU, ulcer-like projections, and the hematoma thickness ratio) are important clues to determine the location of intimal tear. Occurrence of MAAEs seems to be highly related to the pathology of the descending aorta. The modalities of treatment for stable acute type A intramural hematoma that do not meet the existing guidelines should be tailored to the location of the intimal tear.
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Kim TH, Jang JG, Kim SH, Hong JI. Ambient-Stable n-Type Carbon Nanotube/Organic Small-Molecule Thermoelectrics Enabled by Energy Level Control. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:46872-46880. [PMID: 37774009 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c09222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
The stability of n-type organic and hybrid thermoelectric materials is limited in terms of their practical application to p-n parallel thermoelectric devices. We demonstrate the ambient stability of an n-type single-walled carbon nanotube/organic small-molecule (SWNT/OSM) hybrid by deepening the lowest occupied molecular orbital energy level. This hybrid exhibited the best figure of merit (0.032) among n-type SWNT/OSM hybrid thermoelectrics and an enhanced power factor of 291.0 μW m-1 K-2. Furthermore, we observed that the n-type thermoelectric stability of a hybrid of SWNT and pip containing two N-ethylpiperidinyl groups on both sides of a naphthalenediimide core was retained at 87% over 7 months (220 days) under ambient conditions without encapsulation.
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Park H, Park JW, Kim D, Yu HT, Kim TH, Uhm JS, Joung B, Lee MH, Hwang C, Pak HN. Comparison of pulmonary vein isolation using cryoballoon, high-power short-duration, and conventional radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation: a propensity score-weighted study. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1238363. [PMID: 37876772 PMCID: PMC10590885 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1238363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The comparative efficacy, saftey, and heart rate variability (HRV) parameters after pulmonary vein isolation using cryoballoon (Cryo-PVI), high-power short-duration (HPSD-PVI), and conventional radiofrequency ablation (conventional-PVI) for atrial fibrillation (AF) is unclear. Materials and methods In this propensity score-weighted, retrospective analysis of a single-center cohort, we analyzed 3,395 patients (26.2% female, 74.5% paroxysmal AF) who underwent AF catheter ablation without an empirical left atrial ablation. Procedural factors, recurrence rates, complication rates, and the post-procedural HRV parameters were compared across the Cryo-PVI (n = 625), HPSD-PVI (n = 748), and conventional-PVI (n = 2,022) groups. Results Despite the shortest procedural time in the Cryo-PVI group (74 min for Cryo-PVI vs. 104 min for HPSD-PVI vs. 153 min for conventional-PVI, p < 0.001), the major complication (p = 0.906) and clinical recurrence rates were similar across the three ablation groups (weighted log-rank, p = 0.824). However, the Cryo-PVI group was associated with a significantly lower risk of recurrent AF in patients with paroxysmal AF [weighted hazard ratio (WHR) 0.57, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.37-0.86], whereas it was associated with a higher risk of recurrent AF in patients with persistent AF (WHR 1.41, 95% CI 1.06-1.89, p for interaction of <0.001) compared with the conventional-PVI group. In the subgroup analysis for the HRV, the Cryo-PVI group had the highest low-frequency-to-high-frequency ratio at 1-year post-procedure, whereas the HPSD-PVI group had the lowest low-frequency-to-high-frequency ratio at 1-year post-procedure (p < 0.001). Conclusions The Cryo-PVI group had better rhythm outcomes in patients with paroxysmal AF but worse rhythm outcomes in patients with persistent AF and a higher long-term post-procedural sympathetic nervous activity and sympatho-vagal balance compared with the conventional-PVI group.
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Kim J, Kim D, Yu HT, Kim TH, Joung B, Lee MH, Pak HN. Revisiting symptomatic pulmonary vein stenosis after high-power short-duration radiofrequency ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation. Europace 2023; 25:euad296. [PMID: 37757850 PMCID: PMC10558058 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
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Ma G, Kim TH, Son T, Ding J, Ahmed S, Adejumo T, Yao X. Intrinsic signal optoretinography revealing AD-induced retinal photoreceptor hyperexcitability before a detectable morphological abnormality. OPTICS LETTERS 2023; 48:5129-5132. [PMID: 37773402 PMCID: PMC10963897 DOI: 10.1364/ol.501851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal hyperexcitability promises an early biomarker of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, in vivo detection of neuronal hyperexcitability in the brain is technically challenging. The retina, one part of the central nervous system, presents a unique window for noninvasive monitoring of the brain function. This study aims to test the feasibility of using intrinsic signal optoretinography (ORG) for mapping retinal hyperexcitability associated with early-stage AD. Custom-designed optical coherence tomography (OCT) was employed for both morphological measurement and functional ORG of wild-type mice and 3xTg-AD mice. Comparative analysis revealed AD-induced retinal photoreceptor hyperexcitability prior to detectable structural degeneration.
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Kang KW, Shin D, Shin SY, Kim J, Choi EK, Cha MJ, Lee JM, Kim JB, Park J, Park JK, Kim TH, Uhm JS, Shim J, Lee YS, Park HW, Kim C, Joung B. Comparative Bleeding Risk in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation with Cancer versus Without Cancer from Nationwide Prospective Cohort. Int Heart J 2023; 64:832-838. [PMID: 37704413 DOI: 10.1536/ihj.22-507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Comparison of the bleeding risk for long-term oral anticoagulation (OAC) in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF) with and without cancers has been inconsistent. This study aimed to clarify the differences in the bleeding risk in patients with AF with cancers and those without cancers during the long-term OAC.The CODE-AF prospective registry enrolled 5,902 consecutive patients treated for AF at 10 tertiary referral centers in Korea. Of the enrolled patients, 464 (7.8%) were diagnosed with cancers and were followed for all stroke and bleeding events (net composite events).The age, CHA2DS2-VASC, and HAS-BLED scores were similar between AF patients with and without cancers. Male population greatly comprised patients with AF with cancers. They were equally prescribed with direct OAC compared to those without cancers. The incidence rate for clinically relevant nonmajor (CRNM) bleeding events was higher in the patients with AF with cancers than in those without cancers (4.4 per 100 person-years versus 2.8 per 100 person-years, P = 0.023), and net composite events were also more frequent in patients with AF with cancers than in those without cancers (6.4 per 100 person-years versus 4.0 per 100 person-years, P = 0.004). Patients with AF with cancers showed a significantly higher rate of CRNM bleeding (hazard ratio [HR] 1.54, confidence interval [CI] 1.05-2.25, P = 0.002) than those without cancers.Based on the AF cohort, AF with cancers could face a significantly higher risk for CRNM bleeding events in the long-term OAC than those without cancers.
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Park SY, Moon SM, Kim B, Lee MJ, Song KH, Kim ES, Kim TH, Kim HB. Applicability and limitations of quality indicator-based assessment of appropriateness in antimicrobial use: a comparison with expert opinion. J Hosp Infect 2023; 139:93-98. [PMID: 37419187 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2023.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effective implementation of antimicrobial stewardship requires an a-priori assessment of the appropriateness of antimicrobial prescriptions. AIM To evaluate the effectiveness of quality indicators (QIs) in determining the appropriateness of antimicrobial prescriptions compared to that of expert opinions. METHODS The study assessed antimicrobial use in 20 hospitals in Korea, with infectious disease specialists rating the appropriateness based on QIs and expert opinions. The selected QIs were (1) taking two blood cultures, (2) taking cultures from suspected sites of infection, (3) prescribing empirical antimicrobials according to guidelines, and (4) changing from empirical to pathogen-directed therapy for hospitalized patients and (2, 3, and 4) for ambulatory patients. Applicability, compliance with QIs, and agreement between QIs and expert opinions were investigated. FINDINGS Overall, 7999 therapeutic uses of antimicrobials were investigated at the study hospitals. The experts rated 20.5% (1636/7999) as inappropriate use. For hospitalized patients, antimicrobial use was assessed based on all four QIs in 28.8% (1798/6234) of the cases. For ambulatory care patients, only 7.5% (102/1351) of the antimicrobial use cases were assessed using all three QIs. The agreement between expert opinions and all four QIs for hospitalized patients was minimal (κ = 0.332), whereas that between expert opinions and all three QIs for ambulatory patients was weak (κ = 0.598). CONCLUSION QIs have limitations in determining the appropriateness of antimicrobial use, and the degree of agreement with expert opinions was low. Therefore, these QI limitations should be considered when determining the appropriateness of antimicrobial use.
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Kim TH, Oh J, Lee H, Kim MS, Sim SA, Min S, Song SW, Kim JJ. The impact of circulatory arrest with selective antegrade cerebral perfusion on brain functional connectivity and postoperative cognitive function. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13803. [PMID: 37612347 PMCID: PMC10447502 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40726-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Aortic surgery is one of the most challenging types of surgeries, which is possibly related to cognitive sequelae. We aimed to investigate the changes in resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) associated with intraoperative circulatory arrest (CA) in aortic surgery, exploring the relationship between the altered connectivity and postoperative cognitive functions. Thirty-eight patients participated in this study (14 with CA, 24 without). Functional magnetic resonance imaging was scanned on the fifth day after surgery or after the resolution of delirium if it was developed. We assessed the differences in the development of postoperative cognitive changes and rsFC between patients with and without CA. The occurrence of postoperative delirium and postoperative cognitive dysfunction was not significantly different between the patients with and without the application of CA. However, patients with CA showed increased in posterior cingulate cortex-based connectivity with the right superior temporal gyrus, right precuneus, and right hippocampus, and medial prefrontal cortex-based connectivity with the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. The application of moderate hypothermic CA with unilateral antegrade cerebral perfusion is unlikely to affect aspects of postoperative cognitive changes, whereas it may lead to increased rsFC of the default mode network at a subclinical level following acute brain insults.
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Hong SW, Rhee KY, Kim TH, Kim SH. Back Muscle Mass as a Predictor of Postoperative Complications in Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion Surgery. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5332. [PMID: 37629374 PMCID: PMC10455803 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12165332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a lack of studies on utilising skeletal muscle mass via preoperative lumbar computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging as a predictor of postoperative complications of posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) surgery in elderly patients. METHODS Patients aged >65 years who underwent PLIF were enrolled. The sum of the cross-sectional areas of the erector spinae muscles (CSABoth) was presented as the skeletal muscle mass. Postoperative complications were assessed using CSABoth, pulmonary function testing, and prognostic nutritional index (PNI). RESULTS Patients with postoperative complications showed significantly lower values of CSABoth (median 2266.70 (2239.73-2875.10) mm2 vs. 3060.30 (2749.25-3473.30) mm2, p < 0.001), functional vital capacity, forced expiratory volume at 1 s, and PNI. However, multiple logistic regression analysis identified American Society of Anaesthesiologists Physical Status (ASA PS) I (odds ratio 0.307 (95% confidence interval 0.110-0.852), p = 0.023), ASA PS III (4.033 (1.586-10.254), p = 0.003), CSABoth (0.999 (0.999-1.000), p < 0.001), and postoperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusion (1.603 (1.193-2.152), p = 0.002) as risk factors for postoperative complications after PLIF surgery. CONCLUSIONS CSABoth, ASA PS III, and postoperative RBC transfusion might be used as predictors of postoperative complications after PLIF in patients aged >65 years.
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Park H, Yang PS, Sung JH, Jin MN, Jang E, Yu HT, Kim TH, Pak HN, Lee MH, Joung B. Association Between the Combined Effects of Physical Activity Intensity and Particulate Matter and All-Cause Mortality in Older Adults. Mayo Clin Proc 2023; 98:1153-1163. [PMID: 37422738 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2023.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between the combined effects of physical activity (PA) intensity and particulate matter ≤10 μm in diameter (PM10) and mortality in older adults. METHODS This nationwide cohort study included older adults without chronic heart or lung disease who engaged in regular PA. Physical activity was assessed by a standardized, self-reported questionnaire that asked the usual frequency of PA sessions with low (LPA), moderate (MPA), or vigorous intensity (VPA). Each participant's annual average cumulative PM10 was categorized as low to moderate and high PM10 on the basis of a cutoff value of 90th percentile. RESULTS A total of 81,326 participants (median follow-up, 45 months) were included. For participants engaged in MPA or VPA sessions, every 10% increase in the proportion of VPA to total PA sessions resulted in a 4.9% (95% CI, 1.0% to 9.0%; P=.014) increased and 2.8% (95% CI, -5.0% to -0.5%; P=.018) decreased risk of mortality for those exposed to high and low to moderate PM10, respectively (Pinteraction, <.001). For participants engaged only in LPA or MPA sessions, every 10% increase in the proportion of MPA to total PA sessions resulted in a 4.8% (95% CI, -8.9% to -0.4%; P=.031) and 2.3% (95% CI, -4.2% to -0.3%; P=.023) decreased risk of mortality for those exposed to high and low to moderate PM10, respectively (Pinteraction, .096). CONCLUSION We found that for the same level of total PA, MPA was associated with delayed mortality whereas VPA was associated with hastened mortality of older adults in high levels of PM10.
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Bak GG, Lee HS, Choi YR, Kim TH, Kim SH. Excision with Temporary Interphalangeal Joint Pin Fixation for Toe Ganglion Cysts. Clin Orthop Surg 2023; 15:653-658. [PMID: 37529185 PMCID: PMC10375817 DOI: 10.4055/cios22321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Toe ganglion cysts are often symptomatic and recurrent. Communicating lesions between ganglion cysts and the interphalangeal joint (IPJ) or tendon sheath make it difficult to prevent a recurrence. Temporary restriction of the joint and tendon motion can facilitate surgical site healing. This study analyzed the clinical results of temporary pin fixation of the IPJ after toe ganglion cyst excision. Methods Sixteen patients with symptomatic toe ganglion cysts underwent surgical treatment. Excision alone was initially performed on 10 patients. Six patients underwent temporary pin fixation of the IPJ after ganglion cyst excision. Repeat excision with pin fixation was performed for recurrence in two patients after excision only. Clinical evaluations and postoperative complications were analyzed. Results Fourteen of 16 toe ganglion cysts were located near the IPJ. Two cysts not adjacent to the joint completely healed after excision alone. Seven of 14 cysts near the joint recurred after initial excision alone and required repeated reoperation. Eight cysts did not recur after excision with pin fixation, including 2 that recurred after excision alone. Conclusions Temporary IPJ pin fixation after excision for ganglion cysts can be effective for preventing the recurrence of ganglion cysts adjacent to toe IPJ.
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Zhou L, Oh JS, Fang X, Kim TH, Kramer M, Kopas CJ, Field M, Cansizoglu H, Mutus JY. Revealing Possible Coherence Limiting Sources in Superconducting Qubit with Advanced Electron Microscopy. MICROSCOPY AND MICROANALYSIS : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF MICROSCOPY SOCIETY OF AMERICA, MICROBEAM ANALYSIS SOCIETY, MICROSCOPICAL SOCIETY OF CANADA 2023; 29:1733. [PMID: 37613968 DOI: 10.1093/micmic/ozad067.895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
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Kang MS, Son IS, Lee SH, Kim TH. Stercoral Ulcer Presenting in a Patient with Cauda Equina Syndrome Secondary to Postoperative Epidural Hematoma. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1331. [PMID: 37512142 PMCID: PMC10386372 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59071331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Chronic constipation can lead to fecal impaction in the large bowel, which can cause pressure necrosis followed by perforation, known as a stercoral ulcer. In extensive posterior thoracolumbar surgery, a long operation time, large blood loss, and perioperative narcotic use may aggravate constipation. Moreover, sacral root palsy due to cauda equina syndrome (CES) can lead to the deterioration of fecal impaction. This report describes the case of a 77-year-old woman with CES who presented with saddle anesthesia, neurogenic bladder, bowel incontinence, and paraplegia. Five days prior, she had undergone extended posterior lumbar interbody fusion from L1 to L5. Lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed an extended epidural hematoma. After urgent neural decompression, she gradually recovered from the saddle anesthesia, leg pain, and paraplegia over 3 weeks. Thereafter, the patient suddenly developed massive hematochezia and hemorrhagic shock. Urgent colonoscopy was performed, and a stercoral ulcer in the sigmoid colon was diagnosed. After 4 weeks of intensive care for hemorrhagic shock, pneumonia, and systemic sepsis, the patient was transferred to a general ward for intensive rehabilitation. One year after the operation, she was able to walk with assistance, and her urinary and bowel incontinence completely recovered. Chronic constipation, a common clinical problem, can sometimes cause relatively obscure but potentially life-threatening complications such as stercoral ulceration. Possible factors including advanced age, extensive spinal surgeries, prolonged operation time, significant blood loss, perioperative narcotic use, and the presence of spinal cord injury might contribute to the development of this condition. It highlights the importance of recognizing the potential development of stercoral ulcers in patients with CES and emphasizes the need for prompt diagnosis and management to avert catastrophic complications.
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Yoon M, Oh J, Chun KH, Yu HT, Lee CJ, Kim TH, Pak HN, Lee MH, Joung B, Kang SM. Clinical Implications of Device-Detected Atrial Fibrillation in Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy. Korean Circ J 2023; 53:483-496. [PMID: 37271751 PMCID: PMC10406527 DOI: 10.4070/kcj.2022.0342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with decreased cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) benefits compared to sinus rhythm (SR). Effective biventricular (BiV) pacing is a determinant of CRT success, but AF can interfere with adequate BiV pacing and affect clinical outcomes. We investigated the effect of device-detected AF on clinical outcomes and optimal BiV pacing in patients with heart failure (HF) treated with CRT. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed 174 patients who underwent CRT implantation between 2012 and 2019 at a tertiary center. The optimal BiV pacing percentage was defined as ≥98%. Device-detected AF was defined as an atrial high-rate episode ≥180 beats per minute lasting more than 6 minutes during the follow-up period. We stratified the patients without preexisting AF at pre-implantation into device-detected AF and no-AF groups. RESULTS A total of 120 patients did not show preexisting AF at pre-implantation, and 54 had AF. Among these 120 patients, 19 (15.8%) showed device-detected AF during a median follow-up of 25.1 months. The proportion of optimal BiV pacing was significantly lower in the device-detected AF group than in the no-AF group (42.1% vs. 75.2%, p=0.009). The device-detected AF group had a higher incidence of HF hospitalization, cardiovascular death, and all-cause death than the no-AF group. The device-detected AF and previous AF groups showed no significant differences regarding the percentage of BiV pacing and clinical outcomes. CONCLUSIONS For HF patients implanted with CRT, device-detected AF was associated with lower optimal BiV pacing and worse clinical outcomes than no-AF.
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Kim TH, Jeong CW, Lee C, Noh S, Lim DW, Kim JW, Kim HJ, Kim YR. Association between Body Composition Contents and Hepatic Fibrosis in Sarcopenic Obesity. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4279. [PMID: 37445314 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well established that sarcopenic obesity (SO) is linked to many diseases such as metabolic and non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases, but there is little known about the relationship between SO and hepatic fibrosis progression in chronic liver disease. This study compared body composition contents in patients with non-obesity (NOb) and SO using abdominal magnetic resonance imaging and investigated the relationship between hepatic fibrosis and SO factors. This retrospective study enrolled 60 patients (28 NOb; 32 SO) from June 2014 to December 2020. Patients underwent histopathologic investigation where they classified fibrosis stages based on the Meta-analysis of Histological Data in Viral Hepatitis fibrosis scoring system. Muscle and fat areas at the third lumber vertebra level were assessed. The variation in the areas of muscle (MA), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) among fibrosis stages, and associations between hepatic fibrosis and SO factors, were analyzed. There were significant differences in SAT and VAT (p < 0.001), whereas there was no difference in MA (p = 0.064). There were significant differences in MA/SAT (p = 0.009), MA/VAT (p < 0.001), and MA/(SAT+VAT) (p < 0.001). In all the patients, hepatic fibrosis positively correlated with serum aspartate aminotransferase level (AST, R = 0.324; p = 0.025). Especially in SO patients, hepatic fibrosis closely correlated with body mass index (BMI, R = 0.443; p = 0.011), AST (R = 0.415; p = 0.044), VAT (R = 0.653; p < 0.001), MA/VAT (R = -0.605; p < 0.001), and MA/(SAT+VAT) (R = -0.416; p = 0.018). However, there was no association in NOb patients. This study demonstrated that SO patients had larger SAT and VAT than NOb patients. Hepatic fibrosis in SO positively correlated with body visceral fat composition in combination with BMI and AST level. These findings will be useful for understanding the relationship between the hepatic manifestation of fibrosis and body fat composition in sarcopenia and SO.
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Park TH, Lee CI, Kim TH, Kim D, Park HJ. Trophic response of fishes to rainfall variability in a temperate estuarine system of Korea: A stable isotope approach. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 193:115183. [PMID: 37369155 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
To assess the basal resources supporting food webs impacted by rainfalls, we compared stable isotope ratios (δ13C and δ15N) of fish consumers and organic matter sources between up- and down-sites in an estuary between seasons (June and September) and years (2018 and 2019) that showed different patterns of summer monsoon. Our study showed seasonal differences in the δ13C and δ15N values of basal resources and fish consumers in both years. At the up-site, significant differences of δ13C values of fish consumers were found between years, resulting from changing rainfall period, thereby causing a shift in food availability from terrigenous organic matter to periphyton. In contrast, at the down-site, the consistent isotopic values of fishes were observed in both years, suggesting that rainfall shift has a negligible impact on resources for fishes. Overall, the annual shift in resources for fishes in the estuary may be controlled by contrasting rainfall events.
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Zare Y, Kim TH, Gharib N, Chang YW. Effect of contact number among graphene nanosheets on the conductivities of tunnels and polymer composites. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9506. [PMID: 37308514 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36669-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple equations are expressed for tunnel conductivity, tunnel resistance and conductivity of a graphene-filled composite by the number of contacts and interphase part. More specially, the active filler amount is suggested by interphase depth, which changes the contact number. The conductivity of nanocomposite is presented by filler content, filler dimensions, tunneling length and interphase depth. The innovative model is surveyed by the experimented conductivity of real examples. Too, the impacts of numerous issues on the tunnel resistance, tunnel conductivity and conductivity of nanocomposite are discussed to validate the novel equations. The estimates agree with the experimented data and the impacts of several terms on the tunnel resistance, tunnel conductivity and conductivity of system are sensible. Thin and big nanosheets positively affect the nanocomposite's conductivity, but thick nanosheets improve the tunnel conductivity. High conductivity is found at short tunnels, while the nanocomposite's conductivity directly depends on the tunneling length. The dissimilar effects of these features on the tunneling properties and conductivity are described.
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Sugasini D, Park JC, McAnany JJ, Kim TH, Ma G, Yao X, Antharavally B, Oroskar A, Oroskar AA, Layden BT, Subbaiah PV. Improvement of retinal function in Alzheimer disease-associated retinopathy by dietary lysophosphatidylcholine-EPA/DHA. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9179. [PMID: 37280266 PMCID: PMC10244360 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36268-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer disease (AD) is the most prevalent cause of dementia in the elderly. Although impaired cognition and memory are the most prominent features of AD, abnormalities in visual functions often precede them, and are increasingly being used as diagnostic and prognostic markers for the disease. Retina contains the highest concentration of the essential fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the body, and its deficiency is associated with several retinal diseases including diabetic retinopathy and age related macular degeneration. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that enriching retinal DHA through a novel dietary approach could ameliorate symptoms of retinopathy in 5XFAD mice, a widely employed model of AD. The results show that 5XFAD mice have significantly lower retinal DHA compared to their wild type littermates, and feeding the lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) form of DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) rapidly normalizes the DHA levels, and increases retinal EPA by several-fold. On the other hand, feeding similar amounts of DHA and EPA in the form of triacylglycerol had only modest effects on retinal DHA and EPA. Electroretinography measurements after 2 months of feeding the experimental diets showed a significant improvement in a-wave and b-wave functions by the LPC-diet, whereas the TAG-diet had only a modest benefit. Retinal amyloid β levels were decreased by about 50% by the LPC-DHA/EPA diet, and by about 17% with the TAG-DHA/EPA diet. These results show that enriching retinal DHA and EPA through dietary LPC could potentially improve visual abnormalities associated with AD.
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Kim D, Yu HT, Kwon OS, Kim TH, Uhm JS, Joung B, Lee MH, Pak HN. Corrigendum: Effect of epicardial fat volume on outcomes after left atrial posterior wall isolation in addition to pulmonary vein isolation in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1220717. [PMID: 37332573 PMCID: PMC10274134 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1220717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.1005760.].
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