Visual Complexity of Head-Up Display in Automobiles Modulates Attentional Tunneling

OBJECTIVE

To investigate how the visual complexity of head-up displays (HUDs) influence the allocation of driver's attention in two separate visual domains (near and far domains).

BACKGROUND

The types and amount of information displayed on automobile HUDs have increased. With limited human attention capacity, increased visual complexity in the near domain may lead to interference in the effective processing of information in the far domain.

METHOD

Near-domain and far-domain vision were separately tested using a dual-task paradigm. In a simulated road environment, 62 participants were to control the speed of the vehicle (SMT; near domain) and manually respond to probes (PDT; far domain) simultaneously. Five HUD complexity levels including a HUD-absent condition were presented block-wise.

RESULTS

Near domain performance was not modulated by the HUD complexity levels. However, the far domain detection accuracies were impaired as the HUD complexity level increased, with greater accuracy differences observed between central and peripheral probes.

CONCLUSION

Increased HUD visual complexity leads to a biased deployment of driver attention toward the central visual field. Therefore, the formulation of HUD designs must be preceded by an in-depth investigation of the dynamics of human cognition.

APPLICATION

To ensure driving safety, HUD designs should be rendered with minimal visual complexity by incorporating only essential information relevant to driving and removing driving-irrelevant or additional visual details.

A mitochondrial NAD/NADH kinase governs fungal virulence through an oxidative stress response and arginine biosynthesis in Fusarium graminearum

NADP/NADPH plays an indispensable role in cellular metabolism, serving as a pivotal cofactor in numerous enzymatic processes involved in anabolic pathways, antioxidant defense, and the biosynthesis of essential cellular components. NAD/NADH kinases (NADKs) phosphorylate NAD/NADH, constituting the sole de novo synthetic pathway for NADP/NADPH generation. Despite the pivotal role of NADP/NADPH in cellular functions, the physiological role of NADK remains largely unexplored in filamentous fungi. In this study, we identified three putative NADKs in Fusarium graminearum-FgNadk1, FgNadk2, and FgNadk3-responsible for NAD/NADH phosphorylation. NADK-mediated formation of intracellular NADPH proved crucial for vegetative growth, sexual reproduction, and virulence. Specifically, FgNadk2, the mitochondrial NADK, played a role in oxidative stress resistance and the maintenance of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species levels. Moreover, the deletion of FgNADK2 resulted in arginine auxotrophy, contributing to the reduced fungal virulence. These findings underscore the necessity of mitochondrial NADK in fungal virulence in F. graminearum, revealing its involvement in mitochondrial redox homeostasis and the arginine biosynthetic pathway. This study provides critical insights into the interconnectedness of metabolic pathways essential for fungal growth, stress response, and pathogenicity.

Pressure-Dependent Superconductivity in Topological Dirac Semimetal SrCuBi

The discovery of superconducting states in diverse topological materials generates a burgeoning interest to explore a topological superconductor and to realize a fault-tolerant topological quantum computation. A variety of routes to realize topological superconductors are proposed, and many types of topological materials are developed. However, a pristine topological material with a natural superconducting state is relatively rare as compared to topological materials with artificially induced superconductivity. Here, it is reported that the planar honeycomb structured 3D topological Dirac semimetal (TDS) SrCuBi, which is the Zintl phase, shows a natural surface superconductivity at 2.1 K under ambient pressure. It is clearly identified from theoretical calculations that a topologically nontrivial state exists on the (100) surface. Further, its superconducting transition temperature (Tc) increases by applying pressure, exhibiting a maximal Tc of 4.8 K under 6.2 GPa. It is believed that this discovery opens up a new possibility of exploring exotic Majorana fermions at the surface of 3D TDS superconductors.

Guarea microcarpa C. DC. extract inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome by suppressing its ATPase activity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Guarea genus comprises tropical and subtropical terrestrial herbs inhabiting Central and South America. These plants, including Guarea guidonia (L.) Sleumer, have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, antiviral, and immune-enhancing properties.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Although various species of the Guarea genus are known for their medicinal properties, comprehensive data on their anti-inflammatory effects remain limited. Therefore, we investigated the NLRP3 inflammasome-inhibiting effects of the Guarea genus in this study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To evaluate the anti-inflammatory activities of 18 members of the Guarea genus, we treated NLRP3 inflammasome activators with their extracts in LPS-primed J774A.1 and THP-1 cells. Cell viability was determined by water soluble tetrazolium salt (WST) and cytokine production, protein expression, and nuclear fractionation were determined by western blotting. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC) oligomerization were measured using confocal microscopic analysis. Inflammation-induced zebrafish was used in the in vivo experiments.

RESULTS

Among the 18 Guarea members tested, Guarea microcarpa C. DC. extract (GM) exhibited no cytotoxicity and specifically suppressed the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, but not of the AIM2 or NLRC4 inflammasomes, by inhibiting the ATPase activity of NLRP3. This was achieved without affecting NF-κB signaling, potassium efflux, or intracellular ROS production, all of which are involved in NLRP3 activation. The reduced ATPase activity of NLRP3 led to decreased ASC oligomerization. Furthermore, GM exhibited anti-inflammatory effects in vivo. Additionally, GM treatment alleviated inflammation at the organismal level in an LPS-induced inflammation model using zebrafish embryos.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate the anti-inflammatory effects of GM via suppressing the NLRP3 inflammasome. Therefore, GM can be a potential therapeutic candidate for various inflammatory diseases caused by aberrant NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

Aiouea padiformis extract exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the ATPase activity of NLRP3

Inflammation is implicated as a cause in many diseases. Most of the anti-inflammatory agents in use are synthetic and there is an unmet need for natural substance-derived anti-inflammatory agents with minimal side effects. Aiouea padiformis belongs to the Lauraceae family and is primarily found in tropical regions. While some members of the Aiouea genus are known to possess anti-inflammatory properties, the anti-inflammatory properties of Aiouea padiformis extract (AP) have not been investigated. In this study, we aimed to examine the anti-inflammatory function of AP through the NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Treatment with AP inhibited the secretion of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) mediated by NLRP3 inflammasome in J774A.1 and THP-1 cells without affecting the viability. In addition, AP treatment did not influence NF-κB signaling, potassium efflux, or intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production-all of which are associated with NLRP3 inflammasome activation. However, intriguingly, AP treatment significantly reduced the ATPase activity of NLRP3, leading to the inhibition of ASC oligomerization and speck formation. Consistent with cellular experiments, the anti-inflammatory property of AP in vivo was also evaluated using an LPS-induced inflammation model in zebrafish, demonstrating that AP hinders NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

Sulfur metabolism-mediated fungal glutathione biosynthesis is essential for oxidative stress resistance and pathogenicity in the plant pathogenic fungus Fusarium graminearum

IMPORTANCE

Fusarium graminearum is a destructive fungal pathogen that causes Fusarium head blight (FHB) on a wide range of cereal crops. To control fungal diseases, it is essential to comprehend the pathogenic mechanisms that enable fungi to overcome host defenses during infection. Pathogens require an oxidative stress response to overcome host-derived oxidative stress. Here, we identify the underlying mechanisms of the Fgbzip007-mediated oxidative stress response in F. graminearum. ChIP-seq and subsequent genetic analyses revealed that the role of glutathione in pathogenesis is not dependent on antioxidant functions in F. graminearum. Altogether, this study establishes a comprehensive framework for the Fgbzip007 regulon on pathogenicity and oxidative stress responses, offering a new perspective on the role of glutathione in pathogenicity.

Identification of Essential Genes for the Establishment of Spray-Induced Gene Silencing-Based Disease Control in Fusarium graminearum

As resistance to chemical fungicides continues to increase inFusarium graminearum, there is a growing need to develop novel disease control strategies. To discover essential genes that could serve as new disease control targets, we selected essential gene candidates that had failed to be deleted in previous studies. Thirteen genes were confirmed to be essential, either by constructing conditional promoter replacement mutants or by employing a clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9)-mediated editing strategy. We synthesized double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) targeting these essential genes and analyzed their protective effects in plants using a spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) method. When dsRNAs targeting Fg10360, Fg13150, and Fg06123 were applied to detached barley leaves prior to fungal inoculation, disease lesions were greatly reduced. Our findings provide evidence of the potential of essential genes identified by a SIGS method to be effective targets for the control of fungal diseases.

Comprehensive evaluation of drug cases in Seoul and its metropolitan areas - 2022

In order to prepare a response strategy for future drug analyses, the number and results of drug cases handled by the Seoul Institute of National Forensic Service were comprehensively evaluated, with a focus on Seoul and its metropolitan areas. In 2022, the Seoul Institute received approximately 12,150 requests for drug testing related to drug abuse and possession, and the urine samples were tested for approximately 16,000 drug species. The most frequently requested test was for cannabis (Δ-9-THC and Δ-8-THC), followed by methamphetamine, MDMA, ketamine, and synthetic cannabinoids. ADB-5'Br-BUTINACA and propyl butylone were newly emerging substances in 2022. These results were consistent with the main drug detection findings of the confiscated materials. During this period, 24 cases of drug-related deaths were reported, of which 6 were suspected to be the result of acute overdose poisoning caused by methamphetamine, MDMA, fentanyl, and heroin. In addition to the controlled substances regulated by the Narcotics Control Act, new psychoactive substances are being found to be circulating, and various measures are required to address this issue. This study is expected to improve future drug analyses methods and assist in establishing drug policies, and responding to future investigations.

A combined transcriptomic and physiological approach to understanding the adaptive mechanisms to cope with oxidative stress in Fusarium graminearum

In plant-pathogen interactions, oxidative bursts are crucial for plants to defend themselves against pathogen infections. Rapid production and accumulation of reactive oxygen species kill pathogens directly and cause local cell death, preventing pathogens from spreading to adjacent cells. Meanwhile, the pathogens have developed several mechanisms to tolerate oxidative stress and successfully colonize plant tissues. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms responsible for resistance to oxidative stress by analyzing the transcriptomes of six oxidative stress-sensitive strains of the plant pathogenic fungus Fusarium graminearum. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis identified several pathways related to oxidative stress responses, including the DNA repair system, autophagy, and ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis. We also identified hub genes with high intramodular connectivity in key modules and generated deletion or conditional suppression mutants. Phenotypic characterization of those mutants showed that the deletion of FgHGG4, FgHGG10, and FgHGG13 caused sensitivity to oxidative stress, and further investigation on those genes revealed that transcriptional elongation and DNA damage responses play roles in oxidative stress response and pathogenicity. The suppression of FgHGL7 also led to hypersensitivity to oxidative stress, and we demonstrated that FgHGL7 plays a crucial role in heme biosynthesis and is essential for peroxidase activity. This study increases the understanding of the adaptive mechanisms to cope with oxidative stress in plant pathogenic fungi. IMPORTANCE Fungal pathogens have evolved various mechanisms to overcome host-derived stresses for successful infection. Oxidative stress is a representative defense system induced by the host plant, and fungi have complex response systems to cope with it. Fusarium graminearum is one of the devastating plant pathogenic fungi, and understanding its pathosystem is crucial for disease control. In this study, we investigated adaptive mechanisms for coping with oxidative stress at the transcriptome level using oxidative stress-sensitive strains. In addition, by introducing genetic modification technique such as CRISPR-Cas9 and the conditional gene expression system, we identified pathways/genes required for resistance to oxidative stress and also for virulence. Overall, this study advances the understanding of the oxidative stress response and related mechanisms in plant pathogenic fungi.

A portable primary-standard level graphite calorimeter for absolute dosimetry in clinical pencil beam scanning proton beams

Objective. To report the use of a portable primary standard level graphite calorimeter for direct dose determination in clinical pencil beam scanning proton beams, which forms part of the recommendations of the proposed Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM) Code of Practice (CoP) for proton therapy dosimetry.Approach. The primary standard proton calorimeter (PSPC) was developed at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and measurements were performed at four clinical proton therapy facilities that use pencil beam scanning for beam delivery. Correction factors for the presence of impurities and vacuum gaps were calculated and applied, as well as dose conversion factors to obtain dose to water. Measurements were performed in the middle of 10 × 10 × 10 cm3homogeneous dose volumes, centred at 10.0, 15.0 and 25.0 g·cm-2depth in water. The absorbed dose to water determined with the calorimeter was compared to the dose obtained using PTW Roos-type ionisation chambers calibrated in terms of absorbed dose to water in60Co applying the recommendations in the IAEA TRS-398 CoP.Main results.The relative dose difference between the two protocols varied between 0.4% and 2.1% depending on the facility. The reported overall uncertainty in the determination of absorbed dose to water using the calorimeter is 0.9% (k= 1), which corresponds to a significant reduction of uncertainty in comparison with the TRS-398 CoP (currently with an uncertainty equal or larger than 2.0% (k= 1) for proton beams).Significance. The establishment of a purpose-built primary standard and associated CoP will considerably reduce the uncertainty of the absorbed dose to water determination and ensure improved accuracy and consistency in the dose delivered to patients treated with proton therapy and bring proton reference dosimetry uncertainty in line with megavoltage photon radiotherapy.

Alanine response to low energy synchrotron x-ray radiation

Objective. The radiation response of alanine is very well characterized in the MV photon energy range where it can be used to determine the dose delivered with an accuracy better than 1%, making it suitable as a secondary standard detector in cancer radiation therapy. This is not the case in the very low energy keV x-ray range where the alanine response is affected by large uncertainties and is strongly dependent on the x-ray beam energy. This motivated the study undertaken here.Approach. Alanine pellets with a nominal thickness of 0.5 mm and diameter of 5 mm were irradiated with monoenergetic x-rays at the Diamond Light Source synchrotron, to quantify their response in the 8-20 keV range relative to60Co radiation. The absorbed dose to graphite was measured with a small portable graphite calorimeter, and the DOSRZnrc code in the EGSnrc Monte Carlo package was used to calculate conversion factors between the measured dose to graphite and the absorbed dose to water delivered to the alanine pellets. GafChromic EBT3 films were used to measure the beam profile for modelling in the MC simulations.Main results. The relative responses measured in this energy range were found to range from 0.616 to 0.643, with a combined relative expanded uncertainty of 3.4%-3.5% (k= 2), where the majority of the uncertainty originated from the uncertainty in the alanine readout, due to the small size of the pellets used.Significance. The measured values were in good agreement with previously published data in the overlapping region of x-ray energies, while this work extended the dataset to lower energies. By measuring the response to monoenergetic x-rays, the response to a more complex broad-spectrum x-ray source can be inferred if the spectrum is known, meaning that this work supports the establishment of alanine as a secondary standard dosimeter for low-energy x-ray sources.

Past and Future Epidemiological Perspectives and Integrated Management of Rice Bakanae in Korea

In the past, rice bakanae was considered an endemic disease that did not cause significant losses in Korea; however, the disease has recently become a serious threat due to climate change, changes in farming practices, and the emergence of fungicide-resistant strains. Since the bakanae outbreak in 2006, its incidence has gradually decreased due to the application of effective control measures such as hot water immersion methods and seed disinfectants. However, in 2013, a marked increase in bakanae incidence was observed, causing problems for rice farmers. Therefore, in this review, we present the potential risks from climate change based on an epidemiological understanding of the pathogen, host plant, and environment, which are the key elements influencing the incidence of bakanae. In addition, disease management options to reduce the disease pressure of bakanae below the economic threshold level are investigated, with a specific focus on resistant varieties, as well as chemical, biological, cultural, and physical control methods. Lastly, as more effective countermeasures to bakanae, we propose an integrated disease management option that combines different control methods, including advanced imaging technologies such as remote sensing. In this review, we revisit and examine bakanae, a traditional seed-borne fungal disease that has not gained considerable attention in the agricultural history of Korea. Based on the understanding of the present significance and anticipated risks of the disease, the findings of this study are expected to provide useful information for the establishment of an effective response strategy to bakanae in the era of climate change.

Identifying the Correlation between Structural Parameters and Anisotropic Magnetic Properties in IMnV Semiconductors: A Possible Room-Temperature Magnetism

Layer-structured materials are of central importance in a wide range of research fields owing to their unique properties originating from their two dimensionality and anisotropy. Herein, quasi-2D layer-structured IMnV (I: alkali metals and V: pnictogen elements) compounds are investigated, which are potential antiferromagnetic (AFM) semiconductors. Single crystals of IMnV compounds are successfully grown using the self-flux method and their electronic and magnetic properties are analyzed in correlation with structural parameters. Combined with theoretical calculations, the structural analysis indicates that the variation in the bonding angle between VMnV is responsible for the change in the orbital hybridization of Mn and V, predominantly affecting their anisotropic semiconducting properties. Anisotropy in the magnetic properties is also found, where AFM ordering is expected to occur in the in-plane direction, as supported by spin-structure calculations. Furthermore, a possible ferromagnetic (FM) transition is discussed in relation to the vacancy defects. This study provides a candidate material group for AFM and FM spintronics and a basis for exploring magnetic semiconductors in quasi-2D layer-structured systems.

The role of PLiM technologies in CANDU TM ongoing aging management, life extension, and new designs

This paper will discuss AECL’s approach in providing a comprehensive “full knowledge” support to plant ageing and ageing management. This requires the integration of research and development into safety, design, and service areas of the company. The paper will also explore how this integration is being accomplished through the initiatives of the PLiM program. The paper will examine several examples of how AECL is developing its understanding of ageing degradation, the engineered solutions, applying those solutions, improving those solutions, and finally incorporating these solutions into both the PLiM program and into new designs.

The swelling behavior of the mouse cervix: Changing kinetics with osmolarity and the role of hyaluronan in pregnancy

The cervical remodeling process during pregnancy is characterized by progressive compositional and structural changes in the tissues extra-cellular matrix (ECM). Appropriately timed remodeling is critical for healthy gestation and prevention of premature cervical softening leading to preterm birth (PTB). Modification of the ECM glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) content with advancing pregnancy, especially the non-sulfated GAG hyaluronan (HA), is a fundamental change associated with cervical remodeling. While GAGs have numerous physiological roles, the mechanical consequence of evolving GAG content on cervical structure-function behavior remains an open question. Additionally, an understanding of cervical swelling properties, postulated to be regulated in part by GAGs, is required for the appropriate definition of a reference configuration for mechanical tests and to enhance biological understanding. To investigate cervical swelling, osmotic loading tests are conducted on isolated wild type mouse cervices throughout pregnancy. These tests are performed in various osmolarity solutions to assess the influence of the media on swelling kinetics. A genetically altered strain of mice with depletion of cervical HA is also tested to elucidate the contribution of HA to tissue swelling. Results show ex vivo cervical swelling is significant with volume changes ranging from 20 to 100% after 3h of free swelling. The swelling kinetics depend highly on osmolarity of the media and is altered with advancing pregnancy. The contribution of HA to swelling is only significant in hypo-osmotic solution when HA cervical content is high at the end of pregnancy. In summary, it is critical to account for swelling deformation mechanisms after excision in mechanical experiments. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The cervical extracellular matrix (ECM) undergoes drastic changes to fulfill the functional change of the cervix during pregnancy. Inappropriate timing for this transformation can result in preterm birth, a severe clinical challenge. One of the fundamental changes of the cervical ECM is the significant modification of the glycosaminoglycan content, especially hyaluronan (HA), which is thought to contribute significantly to the swelling and mechanical properties of the cervix. This study aims to measure the swelling kinetics of cervical tissue during pregnancy and to investigate the role of HA in these swelling tendencies. Results show the significant swelling of cervical tissue, which evolves as pregnancy progresses, highlighting a key material property feature of the remodeled cervix. Using a mouse strain with a cervical HA depletion, this work shows HA contributes to the swelling trends of late-term cervical tissue, in a hypo-osmotic solution.

Host inflammatory response is the major marker of severe respiratory syncytial virus infection in older adults

OBJECTIVES

We aim to study the viral kinetics and host inflammatory response of RSV infection in older adults, and their correlation with disease severity.

METHODS

We performed a prospective observational study in adults with RSV infection. We serially collected nasal-throat swabs for quantification of RSV-A and RSV-B viral load, and peripheral blood samples for measurement of cytokine/chemokine concentrations. The study endpoints were (i) requiring supplemental oxygen therapy, and (ii) non-invasive ventilation, intensive care, or died within 30 days of admission. We performed multivariable logistic regression models to identify independent variables for severe disease.

RESULTS

We enrolled 71 hospitalized patients and 10 outpatients treated for RSV infection (median age 75 years, 51% male, and 74% with comorbidities). Among hospitalized patients, 61% required supplemental oxygen therapy, and 18% had severe disease requiring non-invasive ventilation or intensive care, or died within 30 days. Inflammatory cytokine/chemokines IL-6, CXCL8/IL-8, CXCL9/MIG and CXCL10/IP-10 increased significantly during the acute phase of illness. IL-6 concentration was independently associated with severe disease after adjusting for confounding factors. RSV viral load was not associated with disease severity throughout the course of illness.

CONCLUSION

Host inflammatory response is a major marker of severe disease in older adults with RSV infection.

Select Porcine Elongation Factor 1α Sequences Mediate Stable High-Level and Upregulated Expression of Heterologous Genes in Porcine Cells in Response to Primate Serum

Genetically engineered (GE) pigs with various combinations of genetic profiles have been developed using heterologous promoters. This study aimed to identify autologous promoters for high and ubiquitous expression of xenotransplantation relevant genes in GE pigs. A 1.4 kb upstream regulatory sequence of porcine elongation factor 1α (pEF1α) gene was selected and isolated for use as a promoter. Activity of the pEF1α promoter was subsequently compared with that of the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter, CMV enhancer/chicken β-actin (CAG) promoter, and human EF1α (hEF1α) promoter in different types of pig-derived cells. Comparative analysis of luciferase and mutant human leukocyte antigen class E-F2A-β-2 microglobulin (HLA-E) expression driven by pEF1α, CMV, CAG, and hEF1α promoters revealed the pEF1α promoter mediated comparable expression levels with those of the CAG promoter in porcine ear skin fibroblasts (PEFs) and porcine kidney-15 (PK-15) cells, but lower than those of the CAG promoter in porcine aortic endothelial cells (PAECs). The pEF1α promoter provided long-term stable HLA-E expression in PEFs, but the CAG promoter failed to sustain those levels of expression. For xenogeneic serum-induced cytotoxicity assays, the cells were cultured for several hours in growth medium supplemented with primate serum. Notably, the pEF1α promoter induced significant increases in luciferase and HLA-E expression in response to primate serum in PAECs compared with those driven by the CAG promoter, suggesting the pEF1α promoter could regulate temporal expression of heterologous genes under xenogeneic-cytotoxic conditions. These results suggest the pEF1α promoter may be valuable for development of GE pigs spatiotemporally and stably expressing immunomodulatory genes for xenotransplantation.

MicroRNAs as biomarkers of atrophic scarring in acne: a cross-sectional analysis of 41 patients

BACKGROUND

Acne is the commonest inflammatory dermatosis seen worldwide. Atrophic acne scarring is a frequent complication, which can arise from acne of any severity. Micro (mi)RNAs are noncoding RNA molecules of 19-25 nucleotides that function as post-transcriptomic mediators of gene expression. They have demonstrated differential expression in various pathologies, such as eczema and psoriasis, allowing for a unique miRNA 'signature' profile to be established for different disease states.

AIM

To establish a miRNA signature for acne, and acne-associated atrophic scarring and to identify if a pattern of circulating miRNA is evident in patients who are prone to scarring.

METHODS

In total, 41 participants were consecutively recruited to this study. Circulating miRNA was quantified from plasma samples in all 41 patients, while in 8 patients, and in a further validation cohort of 9 patients, whole miRNAome was undertaken from tissue specimens, which included lesional, normal and where present, scarred skin.

RESULTS

Three miRNAs, miR-223, miR-21 and miR-150, were statistically significantly overexpressed in acne lesions, and notably, in clinically uninvolved skin in participants prone to scarring. In this subgroup, we also found statistically significantly elevated levels of circulating miRNA-21 and miRNA-150.

CONCLUSION

The presence of elevated levels of these specific miRNAs in the serum of patients with acne raises the potential of a blood test to identify those at risk of scarring, allowing for earlier intervention with effective therapy.

Local Toxicity of Biocides after Direct and Aerosol Exposure on the Human Skin Epidermis and Airway Tissue Models

Biocides are commonly used as spray- or trigger-type formulations, thus dermal and respiratory exposure to biocide aerosol is unavoidable. However, little is known about the impact of aerosolization on the local toxicity of biocides on the skin or the airway. We compared the local toxicity of biocides after direct or aerosol exposure on reconstructed human skin epidermis and upper airway models. Three biocides, 1,2-benzisothiazol-3(2H)-one (BIT), 2-phenoxyethanol (PE), and 2-phenylphenol (OPP), most widely used in the market were selected. When the biocide was treated in aerosols, toxicity to the skin epidermis and upper airway tissue became significantly attenuated compared with the direct application as determined by the higher tissue viabilities. This was further confirmed in histological examination, wherein the tissue damages were less pronounced. LC-MS/MS and GC/MS analysis revealed that concentrations of biocides decreased during aerosolization. Importantly, the toxicity of biocides treated in 3 μm (median mass aerodynamic diameter (MMAD)) aerosols was stronger than that of 5 μm aerosol, suggesting that the aerosol particle size may affect biocide toxicity. Collectively, we demonstrated that aerosolization could affect the local toxicity of biocides on the skin epidermis and the upper airway.

The change of serum serotonin levels between acute coronary syndrome and chronic stable angina undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention

Background

Activated platelets release serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5HT) causing vasoconstriction and aggregation of platelets in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). It can lead to undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We investigated the serial changes of serotonin level in patients with ACS and chronic stable angina (CSA) treated with PCI.

Methods

From July 2009 to April 2010, 123 consecutive patients who have undergone PCI for either ACS (n=63) or CSA (n=60) were enrolled. After the loading dose of aspirin 300mg and clopidogrel 600mg before PCI, maintenance once daily dose of 100mg and 75mg have been given from the day after PCI in all patients. Serum serotonin level (SERO) were serially measured at baseline, pre-, post-PCI, 90 min, 6 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours and 48 hours to compare between ACS and CSA groups. All demographic, biochemical variables, and clinical events were also collected for comparison in each group.

Results

SERO at post-PCI (55.2±120.0 vs 20.1±24.0, p=0.03) and peak level (94.0±170.9 vs 38.8±72.3, p=0.02) were significantly higher in ACS group. SERO after 90 min (34.4±66.1 vs 28.7±38.2, p=0.8), 6 hours (23.9±38.3 vs 10.1±10.0, p=0.34), 24 hours (55.8±108.5 vs 37.2±88.2, p=0.39) and 48 hours (43.5±122.9 vs 25.2±65.5, p=0.53) tended to be higher in ACS group than CSA group without statistical significance. SERO rebounded at 24 hours post-PCI and dropped at 48 hours.

Conclusions

SERO was more elevated in patients with ACS than those with CSA undergoing PCI, suggesting the need for more potent and sustained platelet inhibition particularly in ACS patients. SERO might be considered as a substitute marker of platelet activation. Triple antiplatelet therapy including selective serotonin receptor antagonist on top of aspirin and clopidogrel could be as an option for ACS patients undergoing PCI

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Other. Main funding source(s): Hallym University Research Fund 2017 (HURF-2017-84)

Comparison of prasugrel and ticagrelor for patient with acute coronary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Prasugrel and ticagrelor are both effective anti-platelet drugs for patients with acute coronary syndrome. However, there has been limited data on the direct comparison of prasugrel and ticagrelor until the recent ISAR-REACT 5 trial.

Purpose

To compare the efficacy of prasugrel and ticagrelor in patients with acute coronary syndrome with respect to the primary composite endpoint of myocardial infarction (MI), stroke or cardiac cardiovascular death, and secondary endpoints including MI, stroke, cardiovascular death, major bleeding (Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) type 2 or above), and stent thrombosis within 1 year.

Methods

Meta-analysis was performed on randomised controlled trials (RCT) up to December 2019 that randomised patients with acute coronary syndrome to either prasugrel or ticagrelor. RCTs were identified from Medline, Embase and ClinicalTrials.gov using Cochrane library CENTRAL by 2 independent reviewers with “prasugrel” and “ticagrelor” as search terms. Effect estimates with confidence intervals were generated using the random effects model by extracting outcome data from the RCTs to compare the primary and secondary clinical outcomes. Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomised trials (Ver 2.0) was used for assessment of all eligible RCTs.

Results

411 reports were screened, and we identified 11 eligible RCTs with 6098 patients randomised to prasugrel (n=3050) or ticagrelor (n=3048). The included trials had a follow up period ranging from 1 day to 1 year. 330 events on the prasugrel arm and 408 events on the ticagrelor arm were recorded. There were some concerns over the integrity of allocation concealment over 7 trials otherwise risk of other bias was minimal. Patients had a mean age of 61±4 (76% male; 50% with ST elevation MI; 35% with non-ST elevation MI; 15% with unstable angina; 25% with diabetes mellitus; 64% with hypertension; 51% with hyperlipidaemia; 42% smokers). There was no significant difference in risk between the prasugrel group and the ticagrelor group on the primary composite endpoint (Figure 1) (Risk Ratio (RR)=1.17; 95% CI=0.97–1.41; p=0.10, I2=0%). There was no significant difference between the use of prasugrel and ticagrelor with respect to MI (RR=1.24; 95% CI=0.81–1.90; p=0.31); stroke (RR=1.05; 95% CI=0.66–1.67; p=0.84); cardiovascular death (RR=1.01; 95% CI=0.75–1.36; p=0.95); BARC type 2 or above bleeding (RR=1.17; 95% CI =0.90–1.54; p=0.24); stent thrombosis (RR=1.58; 95% CI =0.90–2.76; p=0.11).

Conclusion

Compared with ticagrelor, prasugrel did not reduce the primary composite endpoint of MI, stroke and cardiovascular death within 1 year. There was also no significant difference in the risk of MI, stroke, cardiovascular death, major bleeding and stent thrombosis respectively.

Figure 1. Primary Objective

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Fe3O4@Void@Microporous Organic Polymer-Based Multifunctional Drug Delivery Systems: Targeting, Imaging, and Magneto-Thermal Behaviors

Multifunctional drug delivery systems were designed and engineered by template synthesis of a microporous organic polymer (MOP) and by postsynthetic modification. Hollow MOP spheres bearing Fe₃O₄ yolks (Fe₃O₄@Void@MOP) were prepared by the synthesis of MOP on Fe₃O₄@SiO₂ nanoparticles and by successive silica etching. In addition to the magneto-thermal function of Fe₃O₄ yolks, an aggregation-induced emission (AIE) feature was incorporated into the Fe₃O₄@Void@MOP through a homocoupling of tetra(4-ethynylphenyl)ethylene to form Fe₃O₄@Void@MOP-TE. Folate groups were further introduced into Fe₃O₄@Void@MOP-TE through the postsynthetic modification based on the thiol-yne click reaction. The resultant Fe₃O₄@Void@MOP-TE-FA showed multifunctionality in antitumoral therapy via folate receptor targeting, doxorubicin delivery, AIE-based imaging, and the magneto-thermal feature.

Effects of comorbidities on quality of life in Filipino people with tuberculosis

BACKGROUND: We investigated health-related quality of life (HrQoL) in Filipino people undergoing TB treatment, and whether HrQoL was negatively impacted by comorbidity with undernutrition, diabetes (DM) and anaemia.METHODS: Adult participants were enrolled in public facilities in Metro Manila (three sites) and Negros Occidental (two sites). Multivariate linear regression was used to model the four correlated domain scores from a WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire (physical, psychological, social, environmental). A forward-stepwise approach was used to select a final multivariable model with inclusion based on global tests of significance at P < 0.1.RESULTS: In 446 people on drug-susceptible TB treatment, DM and moderate/severe anaemia were not associated with HrQoL. After adjustment for age, sex, education, food insecurity, treatment adherence, inflammation, Category I or II TB treatment, treatment phase, current side effects and inhibited ability to work, moderate/severe undernutrition (body mass index < 17 kg/m²) was associated with lower HrQoL (P = 0.003) with reduced psychological (coefficient: -1.02, 95% CI -1.54 to -0.51), physical (-0.62, 95% CI -1.14 to -0.09) and environmental domain scores (-0.45, 95% CI -0.88 to -0.01). In 225 patients with known HIV status in Metro Manila, HIV was associated with modestly reduced HrQoL (P = 0.014).CONCLUSION: Nutritional status and food insecurity represent modifiable risk factors for poor HrQoL that may be alleviated through interventions.