Suppression of UVB-Induced MMP-1 Expression in Human Skin Fibroblasts Using Lysate of Lactobacillus iners Derived from Korean Women's Skin in Their Twenties.

The process of skin aging is intricate, involving intrinsic aging, influenced by internal factors, and extrinsic aging, mainly caused by exposure to UV radiation, resulting in photoaging. Photoaging manifests as skin issues such as wrinkles and discoloration. The skin microbiome, a diverse community of microorganisms on the skin's surface, plays a crucial role in skin protection and can be affected by factors like humidity and pH. Probiotics, beneficial microorganisms, have been investigated for their potential to enhance skin health by regulating the skin microbiome. This can be accomplished through oral probiotics, impacting the gut-skin axis, or topical applications introducing live bacteria to the skin. Probiotics mitigate oxidative stress, suppress inflammation, and maintain the skin's extracellular matrix, ultimately averting skin aging. However, research on probiotics derived from human skin is limited, and there is no established product for preventing photoaging. The mechanism by which probiotics shield the skin microbiome and skin layers from UV radiation remains unclear. Recently, researchers have discovered Lactobacillus in the skin, with reports indicating a decrease in this microorganism with age. In a recent study, scientists isolated Lactobacillus iners KOLBM20 from the skin of individuals in their twenties and confirmed its effectiveness. A comparative analysis of genetic sequences revealed that strain KOLBM20 belongs to the Lactobacillus genus and closely relates to L. iners DSM13335(T) with a 99.20% similarity. Importantly, Lactobacillus iners KOLBM20 displayed anti-wrinkle properties by inhibiting MMP-1. This investigation demonstrated the inhibitory effect of KOLBM20 strain lysate on MMP-1 expression. Moreover, the data suggest that KOLBM20 strain lysate may prevent UVB-induced MMP-1 expression by inhibiting the activation of the ERK, JNK, and p38 signaling pathways induced by UVB. Consequently, KOLBM20 strain lysate holds promise as a potential therapeutic agent for preventing and treating skin photoaging.

Comparable humoral and cellular immunity against Omicron variant BA.4/5 of once-boosted BA.1/2 convalescents and twice-boosted COVID-19-naïve individuals.

The fourth vaccination dose confers additional protective immunity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in individuals with no prior coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). However, its immunological benefit against currently circulating BA.4/5 is unclear in individuals who have received a booster shot and been infected with Omicron variant BA.1/2. We analyzed immune responses in whom had been boosted once and did not have COVID-19 (n = 16), boosted once and had COVID-19 when BA.1/2 was dominant in Korea (Hybrid-6M group, n = 27), and boosted twice and did not have COVID-19 (Vx4 group, n = 15). Antibody binding activities against RBDo BA.1 and RBDo BA.4/5 , antigen-specific memory CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses against BA.4/5, and B-cell responses against SARS-CoV-2 wild-type did not differ statistically between the Hybrid-6M and Vx4 groups. The humoral and cellular immune responses of the Hybrid-6M group against BA.4/5 were comparable to those of the Vx4 group. Individuals who had been boosted and had an Omicron infection in early 2022 may not have high priority for an additional vaccination.

Broad humoral and cellular immunity elicited by one-dose mRNA vaccination 18 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection.

BACKGROUND: Practical guidance is needed regarding the vaccination of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) convalescent individuals in resource-limited countries. It includes the number of vaccine doses that should be given to unvaccinated patients who experienced COVID-19 early in the pandemic. METHODS: We recruited COVID-19 convalescent individuals who received one or two doses of an mRNA vaccine within 6 or around 18 months after a diagnosis of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Their samples were assessed for IgG-binding or neutralizing activity and cell-mediated immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 wild-type and variants of concern. RESULTS: A total of 43 COVID-19 convalescent individuals were analyzed in the present study. The results showed that humoral and cellular immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 wild-type and variants of concern, including the Omicron variant, were comparable among patients vaccinated within 6 versus around 18 months. A second dose of vaccine did not significantly increase immune responses. CONCLUSION: One dose of mRNA vaccine should be considered sufficient to elicit a broad immune response even around 18 months after a COVID-19 diagnosis.

Cerebral angiography using transauricular access in a rabbit model: a new technique.

BACKGROUND: Cerebral angiography in a rabbit model is widely used in the field of interventional radiology. Conventionally, the femoral artery is used for cerebral angiography in radiology departments. However, angiographic studies require surgical cutdown of the femoral artery, which is technically difficult. PURPOSE: To evaluate a new cerebral angiography technique involving a transauricular approach in a rabbit model. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In each of 10 rabbits, central auricular arteries were punctured in the right or left ear with a 20-gauge i.v. catheter. A microcatheter (2.0 F) with a 0.016-inch guide wire was introduced through the i.v. catheter and advanced to the aortic arch. The microcatheter and guide wire were advanced selectively into cerebral arteries and angiography was performed. RESULTS: Central auricular arteries were successfully punctured with 20-gauge i.v. catheters. After approaching the aortic arch, microcatheter tips and guide wires were advanced manually to cerebral arteries on both sides. Difficulties in selecting the carotid arteries were resolved by using a looping technique within the cardiac chamber. Microcatheter loops within the cardiac chamber disappeared or remained during artery superselection. CONCLUSION: Transauricular cerebral angiography appears to be a feasible technique for brain or carotid intervention studies in rabbits. In addition, vertebral angiography using a transauricular approach is possible using the looping technique. Selection of carotid or vertebral arteries on each side was not difficult when the microcatheter and guide wire were looped within the cardiac chamber. The ear chosen for the initial puncture does not appear to be important.

Ten Years and Beyond Longitudinal Change of ß-Zone Parapapillary Atrophy: Comparison of Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma with Normal Eyes.

PURPOSE: To investigate the difference in longitudinal change of ß-zone parapapillary atrophy (PPA) between eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and normal eyes. DESIGN: Longitudinal, observation study. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 153 eyes with POAG and 105 normal eyes. METHODS: Participants were followed for 10 years or more, with disc photography performed every year. The topographic parameters of ß-zone PPA (area, maximal radial extent, angular extent around disc) were measured. The factors associated with the enlargement of ß-zone PPA parameters were assessed by odds ratio (OR) using multivariable logistic regression. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Enlargement of ß-zone PPA parameters and associated factors. RESULTS: Over the course of the average 11.6±1.3-year follow-up period, enlargement of ß-zone PPA was detected in 66.7% of POAG eyes and in 26.7% of normal eyes. Increment of all PPA parameters was significantly more common in cases of POAG than in normal eyes (all P < 0.001). The spatial distribution of maximal radial extent at baseline and final examination was significantly different between the 2 groups: POAG eyes; inferotemporal versus normal eyes; temporal (chi-square = 26.549, P < 0.001, chi-square = 19.320, P = 0.004, respectively). The widening of radial extent was significantly associated with older age (OR, 1.036; P = 0.010) and the presence of glaucoma (OR, 2.599; P = 0.002). The increment of angular extent was associated with the presence of glaucoma (OR, 12.167; P = 0.017) and optic disc hemorrhage (OR, 3.266; P = 0.019). CONCLUSIONS: The pattern of ß-zone PPA change differed between POAG and normal eyes during a follow-up of 10 years or more. The enlargement of PPA occurred more frequently in POAG than in normal eyes. The widening of radial extent was associated with older age and glaucoma, whereas the increment of angular extent was associated with glaucomatous damage.

Twenty-four-Hour Intraocular Pressure-Related Patterns from Contact Lens Sensors in Normal-Tension Glaucoma and Healthy Eyes: The Exploring Nyctohemeral Intraocular pressure related pattern for Glaucoma Management (ENIGMA) Study.

PURPOSE: To investigate 24-hour nyctohemeral intraocular pressure (IOP)-related patterns with contact lens sensors (CLSs) in eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) with normal baseline IOP (i.e., normal-tension glaucoma [NTG]) and healthy controls. DESIGN: Prospective, case-control study. PARTICIPANTS: Thirty eyes of 30 patients with NTG, who had had a wash-out period for their IOP-lowering treatment, and 20 eyes of 20 healthy volunteer subjects. METHODS: Patients and subjects were hospitalized for the purposes of 24-hour CLS (SENSIMED Triggerfish; Sensimed AG, Lausanne, Switzerland) measurement. The IOP-related patterns during wake and sleep times over the course of the 24 hours were compared between the 2 groups. The 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure and posture were monitored simultaneously. A generalized linear model was used to find the factors associated with NTG. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The IOP-related patterns, including mean and standard deviation (SD) of measurements, amplitude of cosine-fit curve, acrophase (signal peak), and bathyphase (signal trough) values (millivolt equivalents [mVEq]). RESULTS: The SDs of the 24-hour CLS measurements were significantly greater in NTG eyes than in healthy controls (112.51±26.90 vs. 85.18±29.61 mVEq, P = 0.002). The amplitudes of cosine-fit curve (141.88±39.96 vs. 106.08±41.49 mVEq, P = 0.004) and acrophase values (277.74±129.80 vs. 190.58±127.88 mVEq, P = 0.024), mostly measured during nocturnal period, were significantly greater in NTG eyes than in healthy controls. The NTG subjects slept longer in the lateral decubitus posture than the healthy controls (199.1±137.8 vs. 113.2±86.2 minutes, P = 0.009). In the multivariable generalized linear model, the greater amplitude of cosine-fit curve (ß = 0.218, P = 0.012) and greater time of decubitus posture during sleep (ß = 0.180, P = 0.004) were found to be significantly associated with NTG. CONCLUSIONS: Continuous monitoring of 24-hour IOP-related values with CLS can be useful for assessment of glaucoma risk, especially for patients with NTG whose IOP appears to be in the normal range. Fluctuation of 24-hour IOP-related values and posture during sleep time might be associated with NTG.

Doxorubicin concentration in brain remains high for one day after triolein emulsion infusion induced BBB opening.

Aim: The purpose of this study was to assess changes in doxorubicin concentration in rabbit brain with respect to time after BBB opening induced by triolein emulsion infusion via a carotid artery and the mechanism of BBB opening.Materials and Methods: Doxorubicin (2.4 mg/kg) was infused immediately after triolein emulsion (1%) into rabbit carotid arteries. Bilateral hemispheres were harvested 2, 4, 6 12 and 24 h later and doxorubicin concentrations were measured fluorometrically. Doxorubicin concentration ratios of ipsilateral versus contralateral hemispheres were calculated, and a TEM study was performed to investigate the mechanism responsible for the increased vascular permeability induced by triolein.Results: Doxorubicin concentrations were higher in ipsilateral hemispheres at all time points, and peaked at 2 h after treatment. Doxorubicin was still detected in ipsilateral hemispheres at 24 h after treatment. TEM showed tight junction opening by triolein emulsion with lanthanum tracer spillage into neural interstitium and transcytotic vesicles.Conclusion: Doxorubicin was delivered into neural interstitium because of the increased vascular permeability of the BBB induced by triolein emulsion. Doxorubicin concentrations in brain peaked within 2 h of triolein and doxorubicin administration and remained high for 24 h. The study shows increased vascular permeability induced by triolein emulsion may involve paracellular and transcellular pathways.

Characteristics of medial condyle sagittal fracture of distal femur involving intercondylar notch in geriatric patients.

INTRODUCTION: Unicondylar femoral fractures are uncommon injuries, known to occur primarily in young people, with high energy trauma. However, according to our experiences, unicondylar femoral fractures in geriatric patients generally involved the medial femoral condyle, unlike previously reported. In addition, the fractures of medial femoral condyle (FMFC) showed a characteristic fracture pattern. To date, there has been no published article focusing on the FMFC in geriatric patients. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the characteristics of FMFC in geriatric patients and to present their outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 13 patients over age of 65 who underwent surgery for FMFC (AO-OTA 33B2). Of the 13, 10 patients were treated with Tomofix medial distal femoral plate (MDF) (Synthes GmbH, Switzerland) and additional screws fixation; the other three were treated with screw fixation and cast application. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 76.8 years, and 10 patients were females. The fracture was due to low-energy trauma in all of the cases. Eight patients had medial knee osteoarthritis, and 2 patients were on osteoporosis treatment. A characteristic fracture pattern was observed. The fracture line extended from the lateral aspect of the intercondylar notch to the posteromedial column of the distal femur, with a characteristic medial beak. All fractures belonged to AO classification 33B2.1; there were no cases of AO classification 33B2.2 or 33B2.3. The postoperative joint function was graded according to the Kolmert functional criteria: ten cases were excellent, one case was good, one case was fair, and one case was poor. CONCLUSION: FMFC caused by low-energy trauma in geriatric patients tend to have a characteristic pattern. We believe that anatomic reduction and firm fixation with Tomofix MDF plate and cannulated screw for low-energy trauma FMFC in geriatric patients would yield good outcomes.

Temporal Raphe Sign for Discrimination of Glaucoma from Optic Neuropathy in Eyes with Macular Ganglion Cell-Inner Plexiform Layer Thinning.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the potential of the temporal raphe sign on the macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (mGCIPL) thickness map for discriminating glaucomatous from nonglaucomatous optic neuropathy (NGON) in eyes with mGCIPL thinning. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 175 eyes of 175 patients with mGCIPL thinning on Cirrus (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA) high-definition OCT were retrospectively included. Glaucoma specialists and neuro-ophthalmology specialists evaluated the patients' medical records for diagnosis of glaucomatous optic neuropathy (GON) or NGON. Finally, by consensus, 67 eyes with GON and 73 eyes with NGON were enrolled. METHODS: A positive temporal raphe sign was declared in patients in whom there was a straight line longer than one-half of the length between the inner and outer annulus in the temporal elliptical area of the mGCIPL thickness map. Decision tree analysis was performed to formulate a diagnostic model. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) with sensitivity and specificity. RESULTS: The temporal raphe sign was observed in 61 of 67 GON eyes (91.0%), but in only 21 of 73 NGON eyes (28.8%) (P < 0.001; chi-square test). On this basis, the diagnostic ability of the temporal raphe sign for discriminating GON from NGON was judged to be good (AUC, 0.811; 95% confidence interval, 0.749-0.874; sensitivity, 91.0%; specificity, 71.2%). The diagnostic performance of the decision tree-based model (AUC 0.879; 95% confidence interval, 0.824-0.933; sensitivity, 88.1%; specificity, 87.7%) was better than that of the temporal raphe sign or the relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD) alone (P = 0.005, P < 0.001, respectively; DeLong's test). The decision tree model revealed the following: (1) If the temporal raphe sign is positive and the RAPD is absent, the case should be diagnosed as GON; (2) if the temporal raphe sign is absent regardless of the presence or absence of the RAPD, or both the temporal raphe sign and the RAPD are present, the case should be diagnosed as NGON. CONCLUSIONS: In clinical practice, determining whether the temporal raphe sign appears on OCT macular scans can be a useful tool for discrimination of glaucomatous from nonglaucomatous mGCIPL thinning.

Nonlinear third harmonic generation at crystalline sapphires.

Third harmonic generation (THG) is a nonlinear optical phenomenon which can be applied in diverse research areas including interfacial studies, sub-wavelength light manipulation, and high sensitivity bio-molecular detection. Most precedent studies on THG have focused on dielectric and metallic materials, including silicon, gold, and germanium, due to their high nonlinear susceptibility. Sapphire, a widely-used optical substrate, has not been studied in depth for its third harmonic characteristics, despite its excellent optical transmission in the UV-visible range, high thermal conductance, and superior physical and chemical stability. In this research, we comprehensively studied THG at thin air-dielectric interfaces of sapphire wafers by controlling the wafer cutting planes, focusing depth, incidence angle, laser intensity, and input polarization of the input laser beam. These findings can lead to broader use of third harmonics for high-precision sapphire characterization, such as surface quality inspection, crystallinity determination, interfacial studies, delamination check, and real-time monitoring of crack propagation.

Subjective and objective image differences in pediatric computed tomography cardiac angiography using lower iodine concentration.

BACKGROUND: Several recent studies showed the optimal contrast enhancement with a low-concentration and iso-osmolar contrast media in both adult and pediatric patients. However, low contrast media concentrations are not routinely used due to concerns of suboptimal enhancement of cardiac structures and small vessels. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility of using iso-osmolar contrast media containing a low iodine dose for CT cardiac angiography at 80 kilovolts (kVp) in neonates and infants. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The iodixanol 270 group consisted of 79 CT scans and the iopromide 370 group of 62 CT scans in patients ≤1 year old. Objective measurement of the contrast enhancement was analyzed and contrast-to-noise ratios of the ascending aorta and left ventricle were calculated. Regarding subjective measurement, a four-point scale system was devised to evaluate degrees of contrast enhancement, image noise, motion artifact and overall image quality of each image set. Reader performance for correctly differentiating iodixanol 270 and iopromide 370 by visual assessment was evaluated. RESULTS: Group objective and subjective measurements were nonsignificantly different. Overall sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy for correctly differentiating iodixanol 270 and iopromide 370 by visual assessment were 42.8%, 59%, and 50%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The application of iodixanol 270 achieved optimal enhancement for performing pediatric cardiac CT angiography at 80 kVp in neonates and infants. Objective measurements of contrast enhancement and subjective image quality assessments were not statistically different in the iodixanol 270 and iopromide 370 groups.

Preliminary study on implantable inductive-type sensor for continuous monitoring of intraocular pressure.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to validate the performance and biocompatibility of an implantable inductive-type sensor for continuous monitoring of intraocular pressure (IOP) METHODS: The sensor is composed of a top layer integrated with an inductor and capacitor circuit, and a bottom layer integrated with ferrite. With IOP change, the sensor's bottom layer is mechanically deflected, which changes the distance between the bottom-layer ferrite and top-layer inductor, resulting in an alteration of inductance magnitude and the resonant frequency (RF). In-vitro measurement was conducted via air pressurization in a sealing jig (n = 3). Subsequently, the sensor was implanted into the anterior chamber of a rabbit eye. In-vivo measurement was performed while the IOP was elevated by infusion of balanced salt solution (BSS, 6 µL/min). Smaller-sized sensors later were implanted into two rabbit eyes, which were microscopically examined at 2, 4 and 8 weeks post-implantation. The eyes were then immediately enucleated for histological examination. RESULTS: The in-vitro measurement showed a significant RF shift as pressure in the jig was increased from 0 mmHg to 60 mmHg (average initial frequency: 10.86 MHz, average shift: 403 kHz). The in-vivo measurement also showed an RF decrease, from 12.80 MHz to 12.67 MHz, as the pressure was increased from 10 mmHg to 20 mmHg. Microscopic in-vivo evaluations and histological exams, performed at intervals up to 8 weeks post-implantation, showed no evidence of significant inflammation or deformity of the ocular-tissue structures. CONCLUSIONS: The implantable inductive-type IOP sensor demonstrated wireless pressure-sensing ability and favourable biocompatibility in the rabbit eye.

Vitreopapillary traction in eyes with idiopathic epiretinal membrane: a spectral-domain optical coherence tomography study.

PURPOSE: To investigate the prevalence of vitreopapillary traction (VPT) and its effect on peripapillary structure and visual function in eyes with idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM). DESIGN: Observational, comparative study. PARTICIPANTS: Patients with idiopathic ERM (n = 116 eyes) and controls with similar age (n = 62 eyes). METHODS: Spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) axial optic disc scans were evaluated to identify VPT in eyes with idiopathic ERM. Based on VPT presence/absence, eyes were categorized as ERM with VPT (ERM+VPT, n = 52 eyes) or ERM without VPT (ERM-VPT, n = 64 eyes). Optic nerve head (ONH) parameters, average and sectoral retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, and central macular thickness (CMT) were compared between groups. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and visual field (VF) (automated Humphrey central 30-2 perimetry) mean deviation (MD) and pattern standard deviation (PSD) were compared between groups. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The ONH parameters, peripapillary RNFL thickness, BCVA, VF MD, and PSD. RESULTS: Fifty-two of 116 eyes (44.8%) with idiopathic ERM had VPT. The ERM+VPT group had larger rim area, smaller average and vertical cup-to-disc ratios, and smaller cup volume than ERM-VPT and normal groups (all P < 0.001). Eyes with VPT had greater CMT than eyes without VPT (421.87±97.31 µm vs. 377.08±75.1 µm; P = 0.006). Average and temporal RNFL thickness was higher in ERM+VPT (98.64±9.33 µm and 93.90±23.42 µm) than in normal eyes (94.02±8.45 µm and 66.42±12.71 µm). No significant difference in BCVA was found between ERM-VPT and ERM+VPT eyes, but MD was lower in ERM+VPT than in ERM-VPT (-3.91±3.68 dB vs. -2.18±2.42 dB; P = 0.005). Additionally, PSD was greater in ERM+VPT. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age (odds ratio [OR], 1.190; P = 0.014) and increased CMT (OR, 1.013; P = 0.005) were associated with vision loss, whereas VPT presence was associated with VF defects (OR, 6.290; P = 0.024). CONCLUSIONS: Vitreopapillary traction was observed in >40% of eyes with idiopathic ERM, as confirmed by SD-OCT imaging. Vitreopapillary traction with idiopathic ERM was associated with altered optic disc architecture, increased average and temporal RNFL thickness, and VF defects.

Microstructure of ß-zone parapapillary atrophy and rate of retinal nerve fiber layer thinning in primary open-angle glaucoma.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether the rate of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thinning differs according to the microstructure of ß-zone parapapillary atrophy (PPA) as evaluated by spectral-domain (SD) optical coherence tomography (OCT) in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). DESIGN: Prospective, observational, comparative study. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 195 eyes with POAG that had been evaluated by serial SD-OCT RNFL thickness measurements for ≥ 2 years. METHODS: On the basis of the extent of Bruch's membrane (BM) within the ß-zone PPA (area without retinal pigment epithelium [RPE]), as shown in the infrared fundus images, PPA was divided into PPA+BM (PPA with intact BM) and PPA-BM (PPA devoid of BM). Eyes were categorized into group A (having PPA+BM only, n=64), group B (having both PPA+BM and PPA-BM, n=58), group C (having PPA-BM only, n=32), and group D (without ß-zone PPA, n=41). The rate of progressive OCT RNFL thinning was determined by linear regression and compared between groups. Factors influencing the rate of RNFL thinning were evaluated, including age, sex, follow-up duration, history of filtering surgery, baseline RNFL thickness, baseline intraocular pressure (IOP), mean IOP and IOP fluctuation during follow-up, PPA types, baseline PPA width, PPA width increase, axial length (AXL), central corneal thickness, and visual field mean deviation (MD). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Rate of thinning of OCT RNFL thicknesses over time. RESULTS: Patients in groups B and C were significantly younger and more myopic, and had a greater AXL, than those in groups A and D (all P<0.001). The rate of global RNFL thinning was significantly faster in group A (-1.66 ± 2.94 µm/year) than in the other groups (group B, -0.87 ± 1.28 µm/year; group C, 0.20 ± 1.86 µm/year; group D, -0.28 ± 1.74 µm/year; P = 0.001). Multivariate regression showed a significant association of shorter follow-up period (P = 0.016), greater baseline global RNFL thickness (P = 0.035), type of ß-zone PPA (group A, P = 0.023), and greater baseline PPA+BM width (P = 0.034) with a faster rate of RNFL thinning. CONCLUSIONS: The rate of RNFL thinning differed according to the microstructure of ß-zone PPA. It was faster for eyes with ß-zone PPA with intact BM than for eyes without ß-zone PPA or with ß-zone PPA devoid of BM.

Prominent hypointense veins on susceptibility weighted image in the cat brain with acute infarction: DWI, SWI, and PWI.

BACKGROUND: The multiple prominent hypointense veins on susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) have been found in the ischemic territory of patients with acute ischemic stroke. Venous side is the unknown area in the hemodynamics of brain infarction. PURPOSE: To evaluate the venous aspect in acute brain infarction through an animal study. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The acute infarction in cat brains was induced with a bolus infusion of 0.25 mL of triolein through one side of the common carotid artery. The magnetic resonance (MR) images, including diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map, SW, and perfusion-weighted (PWI) images, were obtained serially at 2 h (n = 17), 1 day (n = 11), and 4 days (n = 4) after triolein infusion. The obtained MR images were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively. For qualitative assessment, the signal intensity of the serial MR images was evaluated. The presence or absence and the location with serial changes of infarction were identified on DWI and ADC map images. The presence or absence of prominent hypointense veins and the serial changes of cortical veins were also evaluated on SWI. Quantitative assessment was performed by comparing the relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV), cerebral blood flow (rCBF), and mean transit times (MTT) of the lesions with those of the contralateral normal side calculated on PWI. The serial changes of rCBV, rCBF, and MTT ratio were also evaluated. RESULTS: Acute infarction in the first and second medial gyrus of lesion hemisphere was found by qualitative evaluation of DWI and ADC map images. On the serial evaluation of SWI, the cortical veins of cat brain with infarction were obscured at 2 h and then re-appeared at 1 day. The hemorrhage transformation and prominent hypointense veins were seen at 4 days on SWI. The quantitative evaluation revealed increased MTT ratios and decreased rCBV and rCBF ratios on PWIs in the acute infarction of cat brain. CONCLUSION: The prominent hypointense veins on SWI were seen in the half of the acute infarction at 4 days. The prominent hypointense veins on SWI may have good agreement with the increased MTT ratio.

Abdominal tuberculosis with periportal lymph node involvement mimicking pancreatic malignancy in an immunocompetent adolescent.

Abdominal tuberculosis manifesting as isolated lymphadenopathy is rare, particularly in children. Tuberculous involvement of the pancreatic head and peripancreatic area can simulate a neoplasm of the pancreatic head. To our knowledge, obstructive jaundice caused by tuberculous lymphadenopathy has not been reported in children or adolescents. Here we present radiologic findings in a case of tuberculous lymphadenopathy that mimicked malignancy of the pancreatic head and caused obstructive jaundice in an immunocompetent adolescent.

Saturated Fatty Acid Emulsions Open the Blood-Brain Barrier and Promote Drug Delivery in Rat Brains.

We performed this study to evaluate whether saturated fatty acid (SFA) emulsions affect the BBB and determine the duration of BBB opening, thereby promoting drug delivery to the brain. Butyric, valeric, caproic, enanthic, and caprylic acid emulsions were infused into the carotid artery of the rat model. We evaluated the BBB opening and drug delivery over time. The trypan blue and doxorubicin delivery studies were repeated from 30 min to 6 h. In the 1 h rats in each group, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was performed to morphologically evaluate tight junctions, and the delivery of temozolomide was assessed by desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. The ipsilateral hemisphere was positive for trypan blue staining in all the five SFA emulsion groups. In the valeric, enanthic, and caprylic acid emulsion groups, RGB ratios were significantly higher at 30 min and decreased thereafter. Doxorubicin delivery increased in all emulsion groups at all time points. Tight junctions were observed to be open in all groups. TMZ delivery was significantly higher in the ipsilateral hemisphere. In conclusion, intra-arterially infused SFA emulsions opened the BBB and promoted drug delivery within 30 min, which decreased thereafter. Therefore, SFA emulsions may aid BBB research and promote drug delivery to the brain.

Anisotropically Conductive Hydrogels with Directionally Aligned PEDOT:PSS in a PVA Matrix.

Electrical anisotropy, which is characterized by the efficient transmission of electrical signals in specific directions, is prevalent in both natural and engineered systems. However, traditional anisotropically conductive materials are often rigid and dry, thus limiting their utility in applications aiming for the seamless integration of various technologies with biological tissues. In the present study, we introduce a method for precisely controlling the microstructures of conductive and insulating polymers to create highly anisotropically conductive composite hydrogels. Our methodology involves combining aligned poly(vinyl alcohol) microfibrils, infused poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrenesulfonate, and sodium citrate precipitation to form dense, aligned conductive paths. This significantly enhances the electrical conductivity anisotropy (σ∥/σ⊥ ≈ 60.8) within these composite hydrogels.

Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography analysis in deprivational amblyopia: a pilot study with unilateral pediatric cataract patients.

BACKGROUND: To investigate whether macular and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) structure differs among deprivational amblyopic eyes, fellow non-amblyopic eyes, and age-matched normal eyes, using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). METHODS: Macula and optic disc of 14 unilateral pseudophakic children with deprivational amblyopia, and 14 age-matched normal children (mean age, 7.45 ± 2.57 years) were scanned with Cirrus(TM) HD-OCT. Macular, RNFL, and macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) thicknesses were measured, and compared between the eyes after correction for axial length-related magnification errors. RESULTS: The average RNFL thickness tended to be greater in amblyopic eyes (99.64 ± 10.11 µm) than in fellow non-amblyopic eyes (97.28 ± 12.34 µm) and normal eyes (95.38 ± 9.74 µm), but did not show statistical significance (p = 0.429, p = 0.286 respectively). The nasal RNFL thickness was significantly greater in amblyopic eyes (75.84 ± 19.22 µm) than in fellow non-amblyopic eyes (63.42 ± 14.05 µm, p = 0.037) and normal eyes (62.38 ± 9.65 µm, p = 0.043). The central macular thickness in amblyopic eyes (237.05 ± 37.74 µm) showed no significant differences compared to those of fellow non-amblyopic eyes (226.67 ± 34.71 µm) and normal eyes (233.74 ± 27.11 µm) (p = 0.137, p = 0.792 respectively). The macular GCIPL thickness showed no significant difference among the amblyopic, fellow non-amblyopic, and normal eyes (average; 78.94 ± 6.35 µm vs 78.77 ± 6.43 µm vs 82.22 ± 5.00 µm respectively, p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: SD-OCT analysis of deprivational amblyopic eyes with unilateral pediatric cataract demonstrated significant increase in nasal RNFL thickness compared to fellow non-amblyopic eyes and age-matched normal eyes. The macular and macular GCIPL thickness did not show any significant difference. Taken together, monocular pattern deprivation in early childhood may have changed the nasal peripapillary RNFL structure.

Screening fundus photography predicts and reveals risk factors for glaucoma conversion in eyes with large optic disc cupping.

This study aimed to investigate the risk factors for glaucoma conversion and progression in eyes with large optic disc cupping without retinal nerve fiber layer defect (RNFLD). Five hundred forty-two eyes of 271 subjects who had a vertical cup-to-disc ratio (CDR) ≥ 0.6 without RNFLD were enrolled. Characteristics for optic disc configuration (including CDR, vertical cupping, ISNT rule, disc ovality, peripapillary atrophy [PPA]-to-disc area [DA] ratio, and lamina cribrosa pore visibility) and blood vessels (including central retinal vessel trunk [CRVT] nasalization, bayoneting of vessels, baring of circumlinear vessels, history of disc hemorrhage [DH] and vessel narrowing/sclerotic change) were evaluated. From a median follow-up of 11.3 years, 26.6% of eyes (n = 144) developed RNFLD within a median of 5.1 years. Baseline factors, including vertical CDR ≥ 0.7 (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.12), vertical cupping (HR = 1.93), ISNT rule violation (HR = 2.84), disc ovality ≥ 1.2 (HR = 1.61), PPA-to-DA ratio ≥ 0.4 (HR = 1.77), CRVT nasalization ≥ 60% (HR = 1.77), vessel narrowing/sclerotic change (HR = 2.13), DH history (HR = 5.60), and baseline intraocular pressure ≥ 14 mmHg (HR = 1.70) were significantly associated with glaucoma conversion (all Ps < 0.05). An HR-matched scoring system based on initial fundus photography predicted glaucoma conversion with specificity of 90.4%. Careful examination of the optic nerve head and vascular structures can help to predict the risk of glaucoma conversion in eyes with large optic disc cupping.