1.Causal effects of fluid intelligence on psychiatric disorders
Sunyeup KIM ; Gahyun KIM ; Minyoung KIM ; Kyung-Hun SUNG ; Seunghyup LEE ; Youngoh BAE ; Seung Won LEE
Precision and Future Medicine 2026;10(1):27-38
Purpose:
Fluid intelligence (FI), a core cognitive function involved in reasoning and problem-solving, has been linked to psychiatric outcomes in observational studies. However, causal inferences remain challenging due to confounding and reverse causation. This study aimed to investigate the causal effects of FI on 10 major psychiatric disorders using Mendelian randomization (MR).
Methods:
We performed a phenome-wide association study-based two-sample MR analysis to evaluate the effects of genetically proxied FI on 10 psychiatric disorders. Genome-wide association study summary statistics were obtained from large-scale European cohort studies. The inverse-variance-weighted method served as the primary analytical method, and complementary sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess pleiotropy and heterogeneity.
Results:
Higher FI was causally associated with a reduced risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (odds ratio [OR], 0.72; P< 0.001), schizophrenia (OR, 0.69; P= 0.016), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (OR, 0.93; P= 0.006). In contrast, FI was positively associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD; OR, 1.43; P < 0.001) and anorexia nervosa (OR, 1.39; P= 0.005). No significant associations were observed for major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or postpartum depression. Sensitivity analyses supported the robustness of these findings, with no evidence of directional pleiotropy or undue influence of individual single-nucleotide polymorphisms.
Conclusion
This study provides genetic evidence that higher FI exerts divergent causal effects across psychiatric disorders, protective in externalizing and stress-related conditions (ADHD, PTSD, and schizophrenia) but associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental and internalizing conditions (ASD and anorexia nervosa). These findings highlight the need for a nuanced understanding of cognitive capacity in psychiatric vulnerability and guide preventive strategies tailored to disorder-specific cognitive profiles.
2.The Korean Rectal Cancer Multidisciplinary Committee Clinical Practice Guidelines for Rectal Cancer version 2.0
Hyo Seon RYU ; Hyun Jung KIM ; Dong Hyun KANG ; Yoo-Kang KWAK ; Han Deok KWAK ; Yoon-Hye KWON ; Dalyon KIM ; Baek-Hui KIM ; Jae Hyun KIM ; Ji Hun KIM ; Jin Won KIM ; Tae Hyung KIM ; Hae Young KIM ; Soo Min NAM ; Gyoung Tae NOH ; Jun Woo BONG ; Nak Song SUNG ; Seon Hui SHIN ; Kil-Yong LEE ; Sung Chul LEE ; Sea-Won LEE ; Jung Won LEE ; Jong Min LEE ; Myung Hoon IHN ; Joo Han LIM ; Woong Bae JI ; Dae Hee PYO ; Young Ki HONG ; Jung-Myun KWAK ;
Annals of Coloproctology 2026;42(1):4-33
Rectal cancer, which accounts for approximately 40% of colorectal cancers, remains a major clinical concern. Recent advances in diagnostic imaging, surgical techniques, radiotherapy, and systemic treatment have steadily improved rectal cancer outcomes. Considering this, the Korean Rectal Cancer Multidisciplinary (KRCM) Committee has aimed to provide clinicians and policymakers with up-to-date, evidence-based clinical practice guidelines to support optimal decision-making, reflecting current evidence, the Korean healthcare context, and patient values and preferences. The Clinical Practice Guidelines for Rectal Cancer version 2.0 were developed through multidisciplinary collaboration with related academic societies, building upon and updating the KRCM Clinical Practice Guidelines version 1.0 (titled “Multidisciplinary guidelines for the management of rectal cancer”). These consensus guidelines of the KRCM were established based on a comprehensive literature review, evidence synthesis, with recommendation development guided by the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) methodology, and consideration of applicability in real-world clinical practice under the national health insurance system. Each recommendation has been presented with its strength and level of evidence.
3.Efficacy and Safety of Novel Botulinum Toxin Type A (Protoxin) in the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Glabellar Lines: A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Active-Controlled Phase III Study
Hyung Seok SON ; Min Kyung SHIN ; Jong Hun LEE ; Moon Bum KIM ; Kwang Ho YOO ; Sun Young CHOI ; Hye Sung HAN ; Joon SEOK ; Beom Joon KIM ; Yang Won LEE
Annals of Dermatology 2026;38(1):33-41
Background:
A novel botulinum toxin type A (Protoxin; Protox Inc.) has been developed.
Objective:
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the newly developed Protoxin compared to the approved drug onabotulinumtoxinA (OBoNT) in moderate to severe glabellar lines.
Methods:
Adults with a glabellar line Facial Wrinkle Scale (FWS) score of 2 (moderate) or 3 (severe) were enrolled in the study. Subjects were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either Protoxin or OBoNT. A total of 20 units of botulinum toxin was injected at five sites in the glabellar region (4 units at each site). FWS scores were assessed at baseline and at weeks 4, 8, 12, and 16 post-injection. The primary endpoint was the proportion of subjects at week 4 who had a reduction of 2 or more points in FWS and a final score of 0 (none) or 1 (mild).
Results:
A total of 274 subjects were randomized, of whom 78.1% were female. At week 4 post-treatment, the improvement rate of glabellar lines was 62.22% in the Protoxin group and 62.96% in the OBoNT group. The lower limit of the two-sided 95% confidence interval (−12.24%) exceeded the −15% margin, confirming the non-inferiority of the new drug. Safety profiles were comparable between the two groups.
Conclusion
Protoxin demonstrated efficacy and safety profiles comparable to those of OBoNT in the treatment of moderate to severe glabellar lines.
4.Periarticular Osteoid Osteoma of the Calcaneus: A Case Report
Kyeong Baek KIM ; Jung Yun BAE ; Suk-Woong KANG ; Won Chul SHIN ; Sang-Min LEE ; Seung Hun WOO
Journal of Korean Foot and Ankle Society 2026;30(2):80-85
Osteoid osteoma accounts for approximately 10% of all benign bone tumors, but only approximately 4% of cases occur in the foot and ankle area. Periarticular osteoid osteoma frequently manifests with nonspecific clinical symptoms that mimic other conditions, potentially leading clinicians down a diagnostic side path and resulting in delayed or missed diagnoses compared to extra-articular osteoid osteoma. Although plain radiographs may show nonspecific findings, magnetic resonance imaging can detect bone marrow edema and surrounding soft tissue changes. Computed tomography is the most accurate modality for diagnosis. This paper reports the case of a 26-year-old female diagnosed with periarticular osteoid osteoma of the calcaneus and was treated with arthroscopic localized curettage at the author’s institution.
5.Interpositional Arthroplasty of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint using a Collagen Patch Allograft for Hallux Rigidus: A Case Report
Gab-Lae KIM ; Ho-Won LEE ; Ji Hun KIM
Journal of Korean Foot and Ankle Society 2026;30(1):22-25
The surgical options for arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint include cheilectomy, interpositional arthroplasty, and arthrodesis. Arthrodesis provides reliable pain relief but sacrifices joint motion. Therefore, motion-preserving interpositional arthroplasty is preferred for selected active patients. This paper reports a case and early outcomes of interpositional arthroplasty of the first MTP joint using a collagen patch allograft circumferentially wrapped around the metatarsal head, secured with symmetric 1.6-mm mini suture anchors, and protected by temporary transarticular K-wire fixation. At 6 weeks, the pain decreased (VAS 8→3), and the active dorsiflexion/ plantarflexion improved to approximately 45°/45°, without wound complications or radiographic loosening. The collagen patch allograft provided uniform coverage and mechanical stability while avoiding donor-site morbidity associated with autografts. This technique is a reproducible, motion-preserving alternative for patients seeking to maintain joint mobility. Nevertheless, longer-term studies will be required to evaluate the durability and comparative outcomes.
6.Bowel preparation for colonoscopy in special populations: a practical and risk-stratified approach
Myung-Hun LEE ; Won MOON ; Kyoungwon JUNG ; Jae Hyun KIM ; Sung Eun KIM ; Moo In PARK ; Seun Ja PARK
Kosin Medical Journal 2026;41(1):9-18
Bowel preparation is a key determinant of colonoscopy quality; however, inadequate cleansing remains common among patients with overlapping clinical and logistical barriers. In routine practice, preparation failure may prolong procedures, reduce diagnostic confidence, and necessitate early repeat colonoscopy. We review major society guidelines and selected studies addressing bowel preparation in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), chronic kidney disease (CKD), older adults, chronic constipation, and hospitalized patients. Across these settings, the most consistently supported measures include split-dose administration, completion of the final dose close to the time of colonoscopy in accordance with local fasting and sedation policies, and structured patient instructions reinforced through follow-up communication. A standardized assessment of preparation quality is recommended to support quality improvement and appropriate follow-up. Risk stratification can help identify patients who may benefit from intensified preparation pathways, including those with prior inadequate preparation, severe constipation, frailty, or inpatient status. Safety considerations are particularly important in CKD, in which oral sodium phosphate should be avoided and magnesium-containing agents used cautiously; polyethylene glycol-based solutions are generally preferred. In IBD, regimen selection should also consider endoscopic interpretability because sodium phosphate preparations have been associated with preparation-related mucosal abnormalities that may confound the assessment of subtle inflammatory findings. Among hospitalized patients, system-level barriers often predominate, and protocolized pathways may improve workflow and patient comfort while maintaining cleansing effectiveness. We propose a practical, risk-stratified approach to regimen selection, timing, rescue strategies, and safety monitoring that can be implemented in high-volume clinical practice.
7.Eradication of Aspiculuris tetraptera in various immunodeficient mouse models using ivermectin: a case report
Ji-Hun LEE ; Eun-Seon YOO ; Na-Won KIM ; Han-Bi JEONG ; Ah-Reum KANG ; Sun-Min SEO ; Young-Jun PARK ; Byeong-Cheol KANG ; Yang-Kyu CHOI
Laboratory Animal Research 2026;42(1):82-87
Background:
Despite advancements in laboratory animal facility management, pinworm infections remain a persistent issue in immunodeficient mouse colonies. Rapid diagnosis and treatment are crucial to mitigating potential scientific and economic consequences. Effective control requires both the administration of anthelmintic agents and rigorous environmental decontamination. However, the safety and efficacy of these treatments in genetically modified mouse models remains uncertain.Case presentation Aspiculuris tetraptera infestation was identified in multiple immunodeficient mouse models housed in a laboratory facility. Diagnosis was confirmed through fecal flotation for egg detection and necropsy for adult worm examination in the large intestines. Mice received three subcutaneous ivermectin injections at two-week intervals, coupled with environmental decontamination using ivermectin spray for four consecutive weeks. Following treatment, all colonies tested negative for A. tetraptera without any mortality.
Conclusions
A combination of subcutaneous ivermectin injection and environmental spray application effectively eradicated A. tetraptera infestation in immunodeficient mouse colonies. The treatment protocol led to the complete elimination of eggs and adult worms, offering a practical strategy for managing pinworm infections in genetically modified mouse models. Limitations include the small sample size, and the lack of a comprehensive evaluation of physiological and metabolic safety in immunodeficient mice. Further validation will be required to confirm the broader applicability of this approach.
8.Eligibility and causes of disqualification among living liver donor candidates: A single-center analysis of 991 candidates
Eun-Ju NAM ; Jong-Hyun KIM ; Hae-In SHIN ; Young-In YOON ; Deok-Bog MOON ; Ki-Hun KIM ; Tae-Yong HA ; Gi-Won SONG ; Dong-Hwan JUNG ; Gil-Chun PARK ; Shin HWANG ; Sung-Gyu LEE
Annals of Liver Transplantation 2026;6(1):17-24
Background:
A systematic evaluation of potential living liver donors is essential to ensure donor safety and optimize recipient outcomes in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). This study aimed to assess donor acceptance rates and reasons for disqualification among individuals evaluated for LDLT at a high-volume transplant center over a one-year period.
Methods:
We retrospectively reviewed 1,087 potential living liver donors who presented for LDLT evaluation in 2023. Of these, 991 candidates advanced beyond the initial screening (Stage 1) and underwent comprehensive clinical, imaging, and pathological assessments (Stages 2 and 3). Candidates who discontinued after Stage 1 were excluded due to the absence of documented reasons for non-progression.
Results:
Among the 991 candidates who proceeded beyond initial screening, 473 (47.7%) completed the full donor evaluation, of whom 466 were judged to be suitable donors. Among suitable donors, 384 (82.4%) proceeded to donor hepatectomy, whereas 82 did not, primarily due to recipient-related factors such as clinical deterioration or withdrawal of consent. Donor ineligibility was determined in 422 candidates (42.6%), most commonly due to inadequate remnant liver volume (52.8%), hepatic steatosis (20.6%), and insufficient graft size (10.2%). Among candidates undergoing Stage 2 evaluation, 162 (16.3%) failed to meet steatosis criteria; 126 were excluded solely for steatosis and advised weight reduction, and 39 subsequently became eligible and successfully donated.
Conclusion
In this high-volume LDLT center, donor disqualification was primarily driven by remnant liver volume and hepatic steatosis. Targeted interventions such as weight reduction enabled successful donation in a subset of initially ineligible candidates, underscoring the importance of individualized donor evaluation and pre-donation optimization.
9.En bloc capsulectomy of a pseudocyst-like pocket after a massive filler injection into the buttocks: two case reports
Kyung Min KIM ; Jeong Hun AHN ; Ki Hyun KIM ; Sang Seok WOO ; Jun Won LEE ; Seong Hwan KIM ; Jai Koo CHOI ; Insuck SUH
Archives of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery 2026;32(2):26-31
Buttock augmentation is an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure designed to enhance buttock contour, size, and shape. However, the safety profile of this procedure remains insufficiently established, and it carries risks of complications, including foreign body reactions and infections. These complications may be exacerbated by filler migration, resulting in large soft-tissue cavities that resemble pseudocysts. In this study, we describe two patients who developed severe complications following massive filler injections to the buttocks. A 56-year-old female patient presented with a 6×5 cm soft-tissue defect associated with an extensive underlying dead space, sinus tract formation, and a large pocket extending across the buttock. Additionally, a 50-year-old female patient developed diffuse cellulitis and multiple abscesses secondary to migration of an infected filler-related pseudocyst. Both patients underwent successful en bloc capsulectomy, resulting in marked clinical improvement without recurrence or postoperative complications. These cases underscore the serious complications associated with large-volume filler injections and highlight the importance of comprehensive surgical management in addressing late-stage adverse outcomes.
10.DNA Damage and Nuclear Anaplasia Induced by Trastuzumab Deruxtecan in Cancer Cells with Variable HER2 Expression and Homologous Recombination Deficiency Status
So Hyeon KIM ; Yoonjung PARK ; Ahrum MIN ; Hye Yeon PARK ; Yu-Jin KIM ; Sujin HAM ; Jiwon KOH ; Seongyeong KIM ; Dae-Won LEE ; Han Suk RYU ; Jin-Soo KIM ; Kyung-Hun LEE ; Seock-Ah IM
Cancer Research and Treatment 2026;58(2):407-422
Purpose:
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is amplified or overexpressed in various malignancies, including breast and gastric cancers, and is associated with poor prognosis. Although HER2-targeted therapies, such as trastuzumab, improve outcomes in HER2-positive tumors, resistance often develops, and HER2-low tumors remain largely untargeted. Trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd; DS-8201a) is a HER2-targeted antibody-drug conjugate with potent activity in HER2-positive and HER2-low tumors. This study evaluates its antitumor mechanisms and efficacy in HER2-positive, HER2-low, and homologous recombination deficiency (HRD)–associated models.
Materials and Methods:
Effects of T-DXd were assessed in cancer cell lines with diverse HER2 expression and HRD status. In vivo efficacy was evaluated using a xenograft model derived from HER2-low SNU-601 gastric cancer cells.
Results:
T-DXd reduced HER2 phosphorylation and downstream signaling (AKT, ERK) in HER2-positive cells. It induced DNA damage accumulation, as evidenced by increased γH2AX and p-Chk1 expression, and triggered apoptosis through cleaved poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase and caspase-3 activation, confirmed by annexin V staining. Similar effects were observed in HER2-low cells, with greater sensitivity in HRD cells. In xenografts, T-DXd reduced tumor volume by up to 80% at 4 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg. Histological analyses showed decreased Ki-67 and increased apoptosis. Furthermore, T-DXd induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and nuclear anaplasia, suggesting disruption of chromosomal stability as a potential antitumor mechanism. No significant toxicity, including body weight loss, was observed.
Conclusion
These findings highlight T-DXd’s effectiveness in HER2-low and HRD tumors, supporting its broader clinical application, including strategies targeting DNA damage repair pathways.

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