bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between Emotional Maturity and Perceived Stress Regarding Life among Nursing Students: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Saldanha Preeval Josna , Castelino Patsey Sera , Poulose Mini
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Nursing students experience high levels of perceived stress as they interact with a wide variety of individuals including colleagues, clients and families in a high stress environment. The ability to cope with stress inducing stimuli and manage emotions is referred to as emotional maturity. An emotionally mature person has full control over the expression of his feelings. Data on the correlates of emotional maturity and perceived stress among nursing students remains limited hence there was the need of this study. Aim: To study the correlation between emotional maturity and perceived stress regarding life among nursing students. Materials and Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional study carried out in April 2021. Data were collected from 205 first year Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) nursing students selected purposively from Athena, Yenepoya, Dr MV Shetty and Laxmi Memorial College of Nursing, Mangalore, Karnataka, India. A predesigned, semi structured proforma was used to collect demographic details from the participants. Emotional maturity scale was used to assess their emotional maturity and perceived stress scale developed by Cohen was used to assess their perceived stress. Data were analysed by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Karl Pearson correlation coefficient was used to find the correlation between the variables. Results: Majority of the students were in the age group of 17-19 years (96.1%). The ratio of males to female was 1:11.8. Majority (87.3%) of the participants had experienced moderate perceived stress. Mean scores of emotional maturity were 19.13 (±4.287) and that of perceived stress scores were 102.902 (±25.93). Emotional maturity positively correlated to perceived stress of nursing students (r=0.275, p<0.05). Significant association was found between emotional maturity and perceived stress of nursing students with their place of residence. Conclusion: Emotional maturity was found to be correlated with perceived stress of nursing students.
Metabolic Profile of Lean/Non Obese NAFLD (Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) Subjects
Authors: Jaiswal Akash , Jain Kavita , Babu Nagendra
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in the absence of overweight and obesity has been defined as ‘lean NAFLD’. Metabolic syndrome associated diseases in low and middle income countries have variable phenotypes and clinical outcomes. Hypothetically, ‘Lean NAFLD’ can be a part of the spectrum of classical obesity related NAFLD or separate entity with different pathophysiology. Aim: 1) To characterise the NAFLD in lean/non obese subjects; 2) To explore how it differs from classical ‘obese phenotype’ of the NAFLD; 3) To explore how these lean/non obese subjects with NAFLD are different from healthy lean/non obese subjects in terms of metabolic profile. Materials and Methods: The present study was a cross- sectional observational study conducted over a period of six months. Forty subjects were categorised into four groups (1. Lean NAFLD without Diabetes; 2. Lean NAFLD with Diabetes; 3. Obese NAFLD with Diabetes; 4. Lean healthy subjects). Clinical history, examination, anthropometry, biochemical data including insulin resistance by Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) were analysed. Results: Mean Body Mass Index (BMI), Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) and HbA1c (Glycated haemoglobin) of group 2 and group 3 were significantly higher than that of group 1 and group 4 subjects (p<0.001). Mean HOMA-IR of the patients of group 2 and group 3 were significantly higher than that of group 1 and group 4 (p<0.001). No significant difference was seen in HOMA- IR between patients of group 1 and group 4 (p>0.05) and also of group 2 and group 3 subjects (p>0.05). Conclusion: Lean NAFLD subjects have a different metabolic profile than overweight-obese patients with NAFLD, particularly in relation to diabetes. On the basis of all metabolic parameters and insulin resistance, authors propose a spectrum of insulin resistance ‘Non obese Control - Non obese NAFLD without Diabetes Mellitus (DM) - Non obese NAFLD with DM - Obese NAFLD with DM’.
Effect of Activated Biochar on the Fertility an Acid Soil in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Orji O. A.
Published: February 2022

Soil acidity is a potentially serious land degradation issue. When soil becomes too acidic it can decrease the availability of essential nutrients. Investigation on the effect of activated biochar on soil properties of coastal plain sands of Port Harcourt was conducted at the high tunnel hoop house located at the Teaching and Research farm, Rivers State University Port Harcourt. Separate biochars were produced using following materials: Wood Shavings (WS), Corn Cob (CC), Wood (WD), Palm Kernel Shell (PK), and Animal Bone (AB), And a Control (CO). The 6 treatments made up of the various biochars were replicated three times and fitted into a Randomized Complete Block Design. Soil samples were taken before and after treatment application and for determination of physical and chemical properties. Result shows that the pH values significantly increased from 6.63 – 7.73, when compared to the original soil with a pH of 4.97(P = 0.05). The organic matter content was significantly higher (P>0.05) across all the biochar amended soils. Palm kernel biochar (PK) had 31.4% increase in organic matter when compared to the initial organic matter of 1.19%. There was also substantial increase in the soil total nitrogen (100%) for palm kernel biochar. Available phosphorus was also increased by almost 100% for soil treated with the respective biochars; ranging from 0.33 – 0.43 cmolkg-1 when compared to the original value of 0.18 cmolkg-1. Remarkably, the values for most of the exchangeable bases increased significantly (P= 0.05) after treatment application, ranging from 5.68-18.10, 6.01 – 24.1 and 3.93-6.13cmolkg-1 for K+, Na+ and Mg2+ respectively, as compare to the initial values of 4.36, 2.2 and 1.0cmolkg-1.
Effect of Cigarette Smoking on Location of Infarction in Patients Presented with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Sherrah Ahmed Mohammed , Ahmed Elshekh Ayman , Abd El-Al Mohamed Ahmed , Elsayed Elsetiha Mohamed
Published: February 2022

Background: In an acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction, transmural myocardial ischemia causes myocardial damage or necrosis (STEMI). In order to establish myocardial ischemia damage, the current clinical definition of myocardial infarction (MI) in 2018 includes abnormal cardiac biomarkers. STEMI is linked to a greater risk of mortality in the hospital compared to non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndromes. The study's purpose was to investigate and assess the effect of cigarette smoking on the location of infarction in people who had ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Methods: The present case-control research investigated 100 individuals who had a first ST segment elevation acute myocardial infarction and got split into two groups based on the smoking status: group 1 (50 patients): Group 1 (50 patients) were smokers, whereas group 2 (50 patients) were nonsmokers.

Results: Smokers were significantly younger than non-smokers (53.86±7.77) years vs. (58.20 ± 7.80), P = 0. 006. Gender distribution: Smokers were significantly more likely to be male (82.0% vs. 58.0%, P = 0.009). inferior STEMI was statistically significant difference among the two groups (P value =0.045*). Myocardial Infarction Localization by electrocardiogram was statistically significant different among the two groups (P value =0.045*). Ejection fraction (EF) was statistically significant different among the two groups (smoker and nonsmokers respectively 54.86 ± 8.58% vs. 49.04 ± 6.61%) (P value =0.001*).

Conclusions: Smoking raises STEMI risk, and smokers are more likely than non-smokers to develop coronary artery disease at an earlier age.
Determination of Yearly Performance and Degradation Rate of Electrical Parameters of a Monocrystalline Photovoltaic Modules in Minna, Central Nigeria
Authors: Olakanmi Alilu, Saliu , Joel Ezenwora , Abiodun Stephen Moses , Ibrahim Aku , Samuel Matthew , Aliyu Ahmadu
Published: February 2022

Outdoor degradation analysis was carried out on a monocrystalline PV module rated 10 W using the CR1000 software-based Data Acquisition System (DAS). The PV module under test and meteorological Sensors were installed on a metal support structure on the same test plane. The data obtained was monitored from 09:00 to 18:00 hours each day continuously for a period of four years, from December 2014 to November 2018.The experiment was carried out near the Physics Department, Federal University of Technology, Minna (latitude 09o37'N, longitude 06o32'E, and 249 meters above sea level). The sensors were connected directly to the CR1000 Campbell Scientific data logger, while the module is connected to the logger via electronic loads. The logger was programmed to scan the load current from 0 to 1 A at intervals of 50mA every 5 minutes, and average values of short-circuit current, (Isc,) open-circuit voltage, (Voc), current at maximum power, (Imax), the voltage at maximum power,(Vmax), power and maximum power obtained from the modules together with the ambient parameters are recorded and logged. Data download at the data acquisition site was performed every 7 days to ensure effective and close monitoring of the data acquisition system (DAS). At the end of each month and where necessary, hourly, daily and monthly averages of each of the parameters-solar irradiance, solar insolation, wind speed, ambient and module temperatures, and the output response variables (open-circuit voltage, Voc, short-circuit current, Isc, the voltage at maximum power, Vmax, current at maximum power, Imax, efficiency, Eff, and fill factor, FF) of the photovoltaic modules were obtained.Yearly averages of the performance variables were obtained to ascertain the performance, degradation rate, and lifespan of the module. The module performance for the four years of study was compared with Standard Test Condition (STC) specifications. The maximum power achieved at 1000W/m2 for the four years of study are 0.711W, 1.82W, 0.50W, and 0.22W representing 7.11%, 18.39%, 5.0% and 2.25%  of the manufacturer’s 10W specification. Module efficiency at 1000W/m2 for the four years of study is 3.30%, 10.12%, 3.98%, and 2.82% respectively as against the manufacturer's STC specification of 46%. Accordingly, Module Performance Ratios for the PV module investigated were 0.072, 0.22, 0.087, and 0.061respectively. For the Rate of Degradation (RoD), it was observed that Open-Circuit voltage (Voc), Short-Circuit Current (Isc), Power-Output (P), and Maximum Power (Pmax), has an average yearly degradation rate of 1.06V, 0.002A, 0.082W and 0.142W representing 4.9%,0.30%,0.56%, and 1.4%respectively for the four years of study.
Assessment and Comparative Study of Biofilm Formation with Frequency of Multi Drug Resistance in Strains of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Fatima Kiran , Ali Kashif
Published: February 2022

Background: The study was conducted to identify the role of biofilms in the antibiotic susceptibility in the strains of Staphylococcus aureus. A total of 19 non-repeated pus/wound swab samples from different anatomic locations and 17 samples that were previously identified as Staphylococcus aureus and preserved in the labs were included in the study. The Staphylococcus aureus was identified based on colony morphology, Gram’s stain, biochemical tests (catalase and coagulase tests) and molecular identification through PCR amplification. Methodology: A total of 26 samples were recovered out of the 31 samples. Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion susceptibility test was used to determine the sensitivity or resistance of Staphylococcus aureus to methicillin. Out of the 26 strains, 4 were highly resistant, 10 were moderately resistant and 12 strains were sensitive. Three different protocols (Tube Method, Congo Red Agar Method and Tissue Culture plate method) were used for the detection of biofilm formation for both resistant and sensitive strains. Result: Comparative analysis of the antibiotic susceptibility and biofilm formation by different protocols showed that 70% strains that are resistant to antibiotic methicillin produced moderate-strong biofilms. 50% have produced the moderate-strong biofilms in all 3 protocols. In case of sensitive, 50% strains had produced none-weak biofilms in all 3 protocols. Decisions: The strains that had zone of inhibition of close to resistance produced weak-strong biofilms but they all produced weak biofilms in CRA method. It can be concluded that the strains of Staphylococcus aureus that have the ability to produce biofilms become methicillin resistant.
Role of Antioxidants by Comparative Evaluation of Oxidative Stress in Heterozygous v/s Homozygous Sickle Cell Disease Patients: Research Protocol
Authors: Wasnik Rina Raibhan , Akarte Nilkanth Ramji , Dhok Archana , Anjankar Ashish P.
Published: February 2022

Background: Red blood cells are sources for oxidants in Sickle cell anaemia, a genetic disorder of itself. Heme iron and oxygen in oxygenated hemoglobin have bonding interaction and association with electron transfer. In response, antioxidant has modus operandi   to reduce oxidative stress and damage to RBC and tissue.

The studies on biochemical indicators for oxidative stress in sickle cell would further enhance the understanding and present knowledge of effects of antioxidants on the status of iron metabolism and consequent relief to the sickle cell anaemia patients.

Objectives: To   evaluate   oxidative   stress and Antioxidant levels and iron indices factors in heterozygous and homozygous sickle cell disease patients and compare between them along with normal healthy control and Iron Deficiency anaemia

Methodology: Comparative Cross-Sectional Study is designed to explore specific antioxidant levels and oxidative stress along with Iron Indices among sickle cell anaemia   diagnosed cases attending/admitted in the department of Medicine, Paediatrics and   Community Medicine at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and its Hospital, Sawangi, Meghe, along with age and sex matched healthy individuals from general population.

Results: Oxidative stress as evaluated by stress markers may be higher among the Homozygous sickle cell disease than among the Heterozygous.

Conclusion: Oxidative stress may be compounded in sickle cell diseases patients in conjugation with iron deficiency.
Comparative Evaluation of the Adverse Effects of Vaccination against COVID-19 Infection among the Population in Central India
Authors: Bais Archy Singh , Ahmad Fiza Naaz , Gaikwad Ninad , Madhu Priyanka Paul , Chhabra Kumar Gaurav , Reche Amit
Published: February 2022

Background: India's Covaxin and Covishield has associate effectiveness rate of  81% preliminary info. Both vaccines have shown excellent safety and efficacy.

Objectives: To seek the information about vaccination side effect and Covid-19 infection after getting vaccination.

Methodology: We are examining the self-reported vaccination side effect on local and systemic side-effects within 8 to 15 days and covid 19 infections who received one or two doses of the covisheld or a covaxin.

Expected Results:  The expected results of this study will determine the vaccination adverse-effects of covaxin and covishield with its probability of  Covid-19 infection among the dental professionals after getting vaccination in state of Maharashtra.

Conclusion: An observational based study in which we have to identify vaccination side effects and infection after administration of both Coronavirus vaccines which are use in India. Both the vaccines area associate effectiveness rate of  81%.
In-Vitro Antioxidant and Pharmacognostic Studies of Phaseolus vulgaris (Linn) Seed Coat
Authors: Majhi Sagarika , Chaudhary Sarika , Verma Madhu , Rajkumari . , Sharma Meenakshi , Chauhan Iti , Singh Lubhan , Talan Hitesh , Sharma Shivani
Published: February 2022

Objectives: Pulses have grown increasingly popular as a result of their high nutritional content and phytochemical content. However, before to eating, the seed coats of some legume food items were removed, resulting in the food losing its nutritious content. The study deals with the study of pharmacognostic & physico-chemical profile along with in-vitro estimation of bioactive compounds of Phaseolus vulgaris (Linn) seed coat.

Methodology: The morphology of kidney beans was evaluated. Seed length, width, thickness, and surface area were also determined. In physico-chemical parameters extractive value ash value, moisture content, swelling index were recorded. Phytochemical screening displayed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenol, amino acid, tannins, carbohydrates and saponins. HPTLC & in-vitro estimations were done.

Results: Morphology revealed dark brownish red seed, kidney to oval shaped, medium size and bland taste. Microscopically, the transverse section showed the presence of proteinaceous aleurone cells, macro-sclereids and starch granules with irregular oval shape in the cotyledon specify the energy reservoir of seeds. HPTLC showed the presence of flavonoids in Phaseolus vulgaris seed coats. The antioxidant profile revealed TFC (total flavonoid content) as 13.62 mg/g QE (quercetin equivalent) and TPC (total phenolic content) as 32.03 ± 1.50 mg/g GAE. IC50 value for vitamin C was found to be 369.03 µg/ml as compared to Phaseolus vulgaris seed coat 423.00µg/ml.

Conclusion: The study can serve as a valuable source of information and due to presence of phytoconstituents like flavonoid (quercetin) it could be considered for its neuroprotective activity.
Efficacy of Modified Betty Neuman Nursing Theory to Develop Evidence-Based Pandemic Care Pathway for Preadolescents in the School
Authors: Sahu Nirupam Nisha , Vagha Jayant , Gawai Jaya
Published: February 2022

Background: A study on the effect of COVID-19 on children shows that once we pay special attention to the psychological aspect of youngsters, the worst effect occurs, although less sensitive to COVID-19. There’s also evidence that nursing care supported by Betty Newman's model helps prevent 94% of patients with psychiatric cases within the medical care unit. A study that supported the appliance of the Betty Newman Systems model within the nursing care of patients with Covid-19 showed that it helps resolve the nursing problems of a patient affected by Covid-19. Supported by the above study, it's planned to develop a particular epidemic care pathway for preadolescents using the revised Betty Newman's nursing theory.

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of modified Betty Newman’s Nursing Theory to develop an evidence-based pandemic care pathway for preadolescents between the experimental and control groups and associate the post-test score of preadolescents with their demographic variables.

Methodology: Preadolescent students will be recruited for the Superiority trial. the standard and modified Betty Newman theory will be applied to the control and experimental group. The pre and posttest of both groups will be evaluated for their effectiveness.

Expected Outcomes: The newly developed pandemic care approach will effectively reduce the psychological impact of pandemics in Preadolescent children.

Conclusions: Generation of pandemic care pathway for preadolescents and Reduction of the psychological impact of the pandemic among preadolescents.
Atomically Dispersed Intrinsic Hollow Sites of M‐M1‐M (M1 = Pt, Ir; M = Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Pt, Ir) on FeCoNiCuPtIr Nanocrystals Enabling Rapid Water Redox
Authors: Lu Yu , Huang Kang , Cao Xun , Zhang Liyin , Wang Tian , Peng Dongdong , Zhang Bowei , Liu Zheng , Wu Junsheng , Zhang Yong , Chen Chunjin , Huang Yizhong
Published: February 2022

Fabrication of advanced electrocatalysts acting as an electrode for simultaneous hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions (i.e., HER and OER) in an overall cell has attracted massive attention but still faces enormous challenges. This study reports a significant strategy for the rapid synthesis of high‐entropy alloys (HEAs) by pulsed laser irradiation. Two types of intrinsic atomic hollow sites over the surface of HEAs are revealed that enable engaging bifunctional activities for water splitting. In this work, a novel senary HEA electrocatalyst made of FeCoNiCuPtIr facilitates the redox of water at only 1.51 V to achieve 10 mA cm−2 and still remains steadily catalytic and durable after being subjected to a 1m KOH solution for more than 20 h. First‐principles calculations reveal that the incorporation of Ir and Pt atoms with neighboring elements donate valence electrons to hollow sites weakening the coupling strength between adsorbate and alloy surface and, consequently accelerating both HER and OER. This work delivers a powerful technique to synthesize highly efficient HEA catalysts and unravels the formation mechanism of active sites across the surface of HEA catalysts.
2D Covalent Organic Framework Direct Osteogenic Differentiation of Stem Cells
Authors: Bhunia Sukanya , Jaiswal Manish K. , Singh Kanwar Abhay , Deo Kaivalya A. , Gaharwar Akhilesh K.
Published: February 2022

2D covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are an emerging class of crystalline porous organic polymers with a wide‐range of potential applications. However, poor processability, aqueous instability, and low water dispersibility greatly limit their practical biomedical implementation. Herein, a new class of hydrolytically stable 2D COFs for sustained delivery of drugs to direct stem cell fate is reported. Specifically, a boronate‐based COF (COF‐5) is stabilized using amphiphilic polymer Pluronic F127 (PLU) to produce COF‐PLU nanoparticles with thickness of ≈25 nm and diameter ≈200 nm. These nanoparticles are internalized via clathrin‐mediated endocytosis and have high cytocompatibility (half‐inhibitory concentration ≈1 mg mL−1). Interestingly, the 2D COFs induce osteogenic differentiation in human mesenchymal stem cells, which is unique. In addition, an osteogenic agent—dexamethasone—is able to be loaded within the porous structure of COFs for sustained delivery which further enhances the osteoinductive ability. These results demonstrate for the first time the fabrication of hydrolytically stable 2D COFs for sustained delivery of dexamethasone and demonstrate its osteoinductive characteristics.
Spindle‐Like Zinc Silicate Nanoparticles Accelerating Innervated and Vascularized Skin Burn Wound Healing
Authors: Zhang Hongjian , Ma Wenping , Ma Hongshi , Qin Chen , Chen Jiajie , Wu Chengtie
Published: February 2022

The treatment of severe burn injuries is a crucial challenge in skin tissue engineering. Severe burns are always accompanied with large‐area neurovascular networks damage, leading to the lack of excitation functions and difficulty in self‐healing. Therefore, it is of great importance to develop biomaterials which can not only promote wound healing but also simultaneously reconstruct cutaneous neurovascular networks. In this study, Zn2SiO4 (ZS) nanoparticles‐incorporated bioactive nanofibrous scaffolds are designed for innervated and vascularized skin burn wound healing. ZS nanoparticles with spindle‐like morphology are synthesized via a facile hydrothermal method. The incorporation of ZS nanoparticles endows the scaffolds with excellent angiogenic and neurogenic activities in vitro. Additionally, in vivo results show that the ZS nanoparticles‐incorporated scaffolds have favorable re‐epithelialization, innervation, and vascularization abilities through local release of bioactive Zn and Si ions from ZS nanoparticles, leading to rapid wound healing featuring with newly formed blood vessels and nerve fibers. Taken together, this study suggests that the spindle‐like ZS nanoparticles are useful bioactive agents for stimulating vascularization and innervation of functional skin repair. The bioactive inorganic nanoparticles may be used for multifunctional tissue regeneration.
High‐Z‐Sensitized Radiotherapy Synergizes with the Intervention of the Pentose Phosphate Pathway for In Situ Tumor Vaccination
Authors: Wang Yuxiang , Chen Jing , Duan Rumeng , Gu Rong , Wang Weiran , Wu Jinhui , Lian Huibo , Hu Yiqiao , Yuan Ahu
Published: February 2022

In situ tumor vaccination is preliminarily pursued to strengthen antitumor immune response. Immunogenic tumor cell death spontaneously releases abundant antigens and adjuvants for activation of dendritic cells, providing a paragon opportunity for establishing efficient in situ vaccination. Herein, Phy@PLGdH nanosheets are constructed by integrating physcion (Phy, an inhibitor of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP)) with layered gadolinium hydroxide (PLGdH) nanosheets to boost radiation‐therapy (RT)‐induced immunogenic cell death (ICD) for potent in situ tumor vaccination. It is first observed that sheet‐like PLGdH can present superior X‐ray deposition and tumor penetrability, exhibiting improved radiosensitization in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the destruction of cellular nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) and nucleotide homeostasis by Phy‐mediated PPP intervention can further amplify PLGdH‐sensitized RT‐mediated oxidative stress and DNA damage, which correspondingly results in effective ICD and enhance the immunogenicity of irradiated tumor cells. Consequently, Phy@PLGdH‐sensitized RT successfully primes robust CD8+‐T‐cell‐dependent antitumor immunity to potentiate checkpoint blockade immunotherapies against primary and metastatic tumors.
High‐resolution non‐invasive whole brain imaging of tauopathy in a tauopathy mouse model
Authors: Vagenknecht Patrick , Dean‐Ben Xose Luis , Gerez Juan A. , Mu Linjing , Ji Bin , Riek Roland , Razansky Daniel , Klohs Jan , Nitsch Roger M. , Ni Ruiqing
Published: February 2022

Background

Abnormal tauopathy accumulation play an important role in tauopathy diseases including Alzheimer’s disease and Frontotemporal dementia. There is a gap in high‐resolution non‐invasive imaging tool for detecting tauopathy deposits in animal models.

Method

The binding properties of a panel of imaging probes to 4‐repeat K18 tau fibril was assessed by using Thoflavin T assay and surface plasmon resonance assay. Next we established optimal dosage for tau probes in in vivo optoacoustic imaging, and developed transcranial whole brain imaging (130 micron spatial resolution) of tauopathy in P301L model of 4‐repeat tauopathy. T2 magnetic resonance imaging at 9.4T was performed for structural information and for volume‐of‐interest analysis of optoacoustic imaging data after co‐registration.

Result

In vitro assay showed binding to recombinant K18 tau fibril using PBB5, THK5351, but not T‐807 or MK‐6240. i.v. administration of PBB5 in P301L mice led to a retention of PBB5 in tau ladened cortex and hippocampus by registering with structural magnetic resonance imaging data. The specificity of PBB5 was validated by immunohistochemistry with anti‐phosphorylated tau antibody AT‐100.

Conclusion

Optoacoustic imaging with PBB5 facilitates preclinical high‐resolution whole brain imaging of tauopathy, for studying the spreading and accumulation of tauopathy, and for monitoring putative treatments targeting tau.
Classification of Alzheimer’s disease by using tau PET images and deep convolutional neural networks
Authors: Ozsahin Ilker , Sekeroglu Boran , Butler Tracy
Published: February 2022

Background

Amyloid beta (Ab) and pathologic tau biomarkers are specific neuropathological changes that define Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Previously, we applied shallow neural networks for early detection and classification of AD on Ab PET images. The aim of this study is to apply deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) for the classification of AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) on tau PET images by using Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) database.

Method

Approximately 40,000 2D images were extracted from 1,097 baseline and follow‐up tau PET scans (AV‐1451) including 86 AD, 442 MCI and 569 cognitively normal (CN) subjects. All images were fully preprocessed by Laboratory of Neuroimaging (also known as LONI) for making the PET data more uniform and PET images more similar if they are from different scanners. It includes co‐registration, averaging, standardization, and uniform resolution. Scanning protocols are as follows: 370 MBq (10.0 mCi) ± 10% 18F‐flortaucipir, 30 min (5 min per frame) acquisition at 75‐105 min post‐injection. 2‐class (AD vs CN and MCI vs CN) and 3‐class (AD vs MCI vs CN) experiments were performed. The experiments consisted of image preprocessing and DCNN phases. An image sharpening technique was applied to obtain images with sharpened edges. The histogram equalization and an arithmetic operation were applied to the original images to produce intensity adjusted versions. Then, an image transformation function was applied. Finally, two DCNNs with two convolutional (64x32 filters) and two dense layers (128x8 neurons), and three convolutional (256x64 filters) and three dense layers (128x64x8 neurons) have been trained for 2‐class and 3‐class experiments, respectively. Five‐fold cross‐validation was used.

Result

In the 2‐class experiments, receiver operating characteristics area under curve (ROC AUC) scores were found as follows: 0.9943 for AD vs CN and 0.9908 for MCI vs CN. In the 3‐class experiments, macro‐averaged F1 score was found as 0.9827. All results are presented in Tables 1‐4. Figure 1 shows sample Grad‐CAM images.

Conclusion

DCNN architecture was accurate in distinguishing AD, MCI, and CN subjects based solely on tau PET images. Further analyses considering Ab status and other clinical factors, and inspection of Grad‐CAM images to understand the neuroanatomic basis of prediction, are underway.
Effects of traditional Cantonese opera songs on Cantonese‐speaking, community‐dwelling older adults’ cognitive and psychological function, well‐being, and health
Authors: Ho‐yin Lai Frank , Wai‐kwong Man David , Chi‐sing Yu Edwin , Yuen‐ying Lee Grace
Published: February 2022

Background

Experiencing multi‐sensory cognitive stimulation through the enjoyment of Cantonese opera songs, with their lively rhythms, familiar folk tales, meaningful lyrics and pleasant scenarios, has the potential to increase neuroplasticity and prevent cognitive decline.

Method

This prospective pre‐ and post‐test quasi‐experimental randomised controlled trial design study aimed to explore the social benefits of older adults’ active participation in practising Cantonese opera songs as compared with passive participation (as an audience) and a non‐interventional control group on cognitive function, psychological function, functional independence, well‐being and health.

Result

By recruiting a group of older adults who were receiving day activities social service in Hong Kong. Thirty participants were randomly allocated to active participation in Cantonese opera (ACO). They participated in practising Cantonese opera songs. Thirty‐four participants were assigned to passive participation in Cantonese opera (PCO). They received passive intervention by listening to and appreciating the opera songs as a social event. Thirty‐one participants were used as a control group and received no similar training.

Conclusion

ACO caused a positive change in cognitive function as compared to PCO and to no intervention, which implies that active learning and practise of opera songs benefits global cognitive function. The psychological function of the participants in the PCO group showed an elevated positive affect and a reduced negative affect. A statistically significant difference was noted in the time effect among the physical domains of health status, functional independence and well‐being of participants who underwent Cantonese opera intervention.
The impact of a global pandemic on persons living with dementia and their care partners: An analysis of 417 survey responses
Authors: Tam Mallorie T , Dosso Jill A , Robillard Julie M
Published: February 2022

Background

In the midst of the current global health crisis, it is critical to capture the lived experiences of older adults and their care partners to inform priorities for health care services. The COVID‐19 pandemic that surfaced in 2019 impacted the physical and emotional health of older adults living with dementia and their care partners. The goal of this project was to explore the experiences and needs of people living with dementia and their care partners during the COVID‐19 pandemic as part of an ongoing evaluation of dementia support services provided by the Alzheimer Society of British Columbia in British Columbia, Canada.

Method

People living with dementia and care partners were recruited from the communication channels of the Alzheimer Society of B.C. Participants completed an online survey that was developed around the priorities identified in the context of the COVID‐19 and Dementia Task Force convened by the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

Result

A total of 417 completed surveys were analysed (395 care partners, 22 people living with dementia). Overall, respondents indicated that they were able to access information that was helpful for maintaining their own health and managing a period of social distancing (74% care partners, 86% people living with dementia). Care partners reported a number of serious concerns, including the inability to visit the person that they care for in long‐term or palliative care. Participants also reported that the pandemic increased their levels of stress overall (58%, 62%) and that they felt more isolated than they did before the pandemic (74%, 81%). The use of technology was reported as a way to connect socially with their loved ones, with the majority of participants connecting with others at least twice per week (79%, 75%). Many indicated an interest in learning more about using technology to connect with others (32%, 50%).

Conclusion

Evaluating the complex effects of a global pandemic through the experiences of people living with dementia and their care partners is vital to inform healthcare priorities to restore their quality of life and health and better prepare for the future.
Longitudinal effects of behavioral interventions: A comparison using a propensity score matching model
Authors: Ying Gelan , Locke Dona E , Chandler Melanie , Shandera‐Ochsner Anne , Smith Glenn E
Published: February 2022

Background

Behavioral interventions are often recommended for persons with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The Healthy Action to Benefit Independence & Thinking® Program (HABIT) has been shown to benefit activities of daily living (ADL) and self‐efficacy in patients at 6‐ and 12‐months post intervention. However, to date, the findings have been limited by comparison to a relatively small, untreated control group. This study attempted to explore HABIT ADL outcomes compared to a large, presumably untreated Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) MCI cohort.

Method

A total of 767 participants with MCI were selected from the ADNI database, whereas 478 participants with MCI were recruited from the HABIT IRB approved research registry. Functional outcomes were assessed with informant‐based measures ‐ Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ) and Everyday Cognition scale (ECOG) memory and total scores – at both 6‐month‐ and 12‐month‐follow‐ups. After near‐neighbor propensity score matching with a caliper of 0.2, 288 participants from each group were matched for the FAQ, and 333 were matched for the ECOG scores. Latent growth curve models were used to test the hypothesis that the HABIT program might delay functional decline in patients with MCI.

Result

After matching HABIT group continued to show higher initial scores on FAQ (b=.849, p=.013), and ECOG memory (b=.200, p=.004) and total scores (b=1.115, p<.001) compared to the ADNI group. Although an increase in scores was observed in both groups for each functional outcome, the slopes were steeper for the HABIT group for FAQ (b=1.194, p<.001), ECOG memory (b=.073, p=.019) and ECOG total (b=.383, p=.007).

Conclusion

Contrary to our hypothesis, in this non‐randomized study, partners of HABIT participants with MCI reported more rapid functional decline compared to those in an imaging study. This discrepancy could be due to the HABIT group’s higher baseline impairment level even after matching. Furthermore, patients with perceived more rapid decline may be more likely to seek interventions relative to those who elect to participate in a non‐interventional imaging study. In addition, the intervention sessions could prime the partners to be more scrupulous and aware when rating functional assessments. Additional randomized research may help add clarity to these findings.
Physical activity is associated with increased resting‐state fcMRI in networks predictive of cognitive decline in clinically unimpaired older adults
Authors: Pruzin Jeremy J.
Published: February 2022

Background

While physical activity (PA) may promote resilience to cognitive decline and AD dementia, the mechanisms underlying this effect are poorly understood. Our group previously demonstrated lower levels of functional connectivity (rs‐fcMRI) in the default, salience, and control networks were associated with greater prospective cognitive decline, both alone and synergistically with β‐amyloid (Buckley and Schultz et al., 2017). In this context, we assessed whether higher PA may be associated with greater connectivity, and whether PA effects on connectivity may mediate the relationship of PA to prospective cognitive decline.

Method

A waist mounted pedometer was used to record PA (steps/day during one week) in 167 cognitively unimpaired adults aged 63‐90 (mean 74.0; SD 6.1) participating in the Harvard Aging Brain Study. Participants underwent baseline rs‐fcMRI and β‐amyloid imaging with Pittsburgh Compound B PET. We analyzed rs‐fcMRI in the 3 networks previously associated with cognitive decline (default, salience, and control) as well as in 4 motor or sensory networks in which connectivity strength is not associated with cognitive change. Cognition was measured annually with the Preclinical Alzheimer Cognitive Composite (PACC). We used linear regression to examine associations between PA and connectivity in these networks, controlling for age, sex, and APOE e4 status. We conducted exploratory analyses using linear mixed effects models to examine if associations between PA and connectivity strength may partially explain PA associations with cognitive decline in the context of elevated β‐amyloid.

Result

Higher baseline PA was significantly associated with increased connectivity in the default, salience, and control networks (all p<0.017) after adjusting for covariates and controlling for multiple comparisons. PA was not associated with connectivity in any of the other networks examined. Greater connectivity in these networks was a weak partial mediator of PA's association with longitudinal PACC decline in participants with elevated β‐amyloid (figure 1).

Conclusion

Greater PA is associated with increased connectivity in three networks (default, salience, and control) in which greater connectivity is associated with less cognitive decline. One potential mechanism by which PA may promote resilience to cognitive decline is through increased functional connectivity in a core set of AD‐relevant cognitive networks.
Regional uptakes from early‐frame amyloid PET and 18F‐FDG PET scans are comparable independent of disease state
Authors: Myoraku Alison , Tosun Duygu
Published: February 2022

Background

In the assessment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), it is important to consider multiple aspects of the pathology, including amyloid burden and glucose metabolism. Currently, these two aspects require two separate PET scans, which is expensive and exposes the patient to multiple radioligand injections. To circumvent this issue, early‐frame uptake during amyloid PET imaging has been proposed as a surrogate measure of regional metabolism. Given the impact of disease on neurovascular coupling, we investigated whether the information captured in the early frames of an amyloid PET scan is comparable to that of a 18F‐FDG PET scan, independent of disease state.

Method

Early frame 18F‐AV45 and 18F‐FDG PET scans from 103 participants ‐ 54 Cognitively Unimpaired (CU), 40 MCI, 17 Dementia ‐ were obtained from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) database and standard uptake values for 82 regions of interest were extracted from each image. A partial correlation with time between scans as a covariate was performed, along with a linear regression to assess the R2 value and any potential effects of disease state and interaction between FDG and disease state.

Result

The partial correlation was significant in 70/82 ROIs. The highest correlation between the amyloid and 18F‐FDG data in a cortical region was in the anterior temporal lobe (left: β=0.41, p=6.01e‐5; right:β=0.41, p=7.4e‐5). Compared to CU participants, the early‐frame AV45 versus FDG uptake association in Dementia participants was significantly stronger in the bilateral amygdala (left:β=‐0.42, p=0.049; right:β=‐0.58, p=0.007), anterior temporal lobe (left:β=‐0.38, p=0.003; right:β=‐0.29, p=0.02), and caudate (left:β=‐0.32, p=0.046; right:β=‐0.43, p=0.0006), and the right inferiorlateral remainder of the parietal lobe (β=‐0.39, p=0.03), but weaker in right lingual gyrus (β=0.64, p=0.02).

Conclusion

Overall, we find that the early‐frame amyloid scans largely capture the same information about metabolism as 18F‐FDG PET scans do, regardless of disease state. The regions with significant difference between disease states are implicated in Dementia pathophysiology and warrant longitudinal early‐frame amyloid PET imaging studies to further assess the value of early‐frame imaging as a marker of brain metabolism.
Identification of empathic communication behaviors for enhancement of person center care: A blueprint
Authors: Brown Ellen L , Agronin Marc , Garcai Stephanie Jasmine , Moore Stefanie Nicole
Published: February 2022

Background

The benefits of empathy in providing optimal healthcare have been reported in multiple studies. There has also been several studies and professional association statements identifying the need for “empathy in communicating” or “empathic communication” in delivering person‐centered‐care. However, an agreed upon definition of the components of “empathic communication” are unavailable. The purpose of this study was to create a blueprint and explore the use of empathic communication behaviors among nurses at a large skilled nursing facility.

Method

A multidisciplinary long‐term care team including stakeholders set out to identify the content and operationalize empathic communication behaviors. Through a systematic review 1, multiple iterations, and stakeholder input; the conceptualized empathic communication behaviors were identified and placed into three domains:

Nonverbal Behaviors: Being present for others by maintaining eye contact; maintaining a welcoming and attentive body position and facial expression; observing the other person’s facial expression.

Listening Skills: Asking questions to clarify the situation; repeating back what is heard.

Imagination: Imagining what other people are experiencing if one were walking in their shoes, and how one would feel in a similar situation.

To gauge their degree of empathic behaviors, participants were asked how often they performed specific activities. Data collected included demographics, eight empathic communication behaviors, and the Toronto Empathy Questionnaire (TEQ).

Result

63 nurses (Certified Nursing Assistants: CNAs, Professional Nurses: PNs), primarily African American and Afro‐Caribbean women, completed the survey. There were significant differences in nonverbal communication skills between CNAs and PNs. We found the nurses TEQ scores were consistent with women’s scores in the general population.

Conclusion

These findings support the conceptualized “Eight Empathic Communication Behaviors” as a majority of respondents reported they frequently use these behaviors to gain understanding about what someone else (resident, visitor, or coworker) is communicating. Further research will include observation of nurses’ behaviors but has been delayed due to the pandemic. Exploration of strategies to foster a social environment that promotes empathic communication that promotes positive care outcomes is needed. 1. Brown, E.L., Agronin, M.E., Stein, J. (2020). A Systematic Review of Interventions to Enhance Empathy and Person‐Centered‐Care with Dementia. Res Gerontol Nurs, 13 (3):158‐168.
The relation between accelerometer‐derived physical activity and cortical thickness: A population‐based study
Authors: Fox Fabienne A.U. , Diers Kersten , Reuter Martin , Breteler Monique M.B. , Aziz N. Ahmad
Published: February 2022

Background

Cortical thinning occurs with brain ageing and is a hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases, especially Alzheimer’s disease. While there is growing evidence that physical activity facilitates neuroplasticity and has neuroprotective effects, its influence on cortical thickness remains largely unexplored. We therefore aimed to elucidate 1) whether objectively‐assessed physical activity is associated with cortical thickness, and 2) which molecular mechanisms could underlie this association.

Method

Our source population consisted of the first 5,000 participants of the Rhineland Study, a prospective cohort study in Bonn (Germany), from which we included data of 2,649 participants (57.6% female, mean age: 54.7 years (range: 30 – 94 years)) with valid physical activity and MRI measurements. Free‐living physical activity was measured continuously over seven days using activPAL3 accelerometers. Physical activity measures included average daily metabolic equivalent (MET)‐hours, total step count and minutes spent stepping as well as average daily percentage of time (%) spent performing sedentary, light‐intensity and moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activities. We obtained cortical thickness estimates from 3T MRI scans using FreeSurfer. The association of physical activity and cortical thickness was examined using multivariable regression, with physical activity as independent and cortical thickness as dependent variables, while adjusting for age, sex, education and smoking status. Using gene expression profiles from the Allen Brain Atlas, we subsequently assessed which molecular signatures were associated with vertex‐wise effects of physical activity on cortical thickness.

Result

More daily MET‐hours and step minutes were associated with higher mean precentral thickness (standardised effects: MET‐hours, ß=0.01 mm2/hour, 95% CI: 0.001–0.019; step counts, ß=0.01 mm2/3145 steps, 95% CI: 0.001–0.019). However, mean lateral‐occipital thickness decreased by 0.018 mm2 (95% CI: ‐0.027 – ‐0.01) for each standard deviation increase in %time spent in light‐intensity activities. Whole brain vertex‐wise analysis demonstrated that higher physical activity levels were related to larger cortical thickness in frontal and temporal areas, but lower cortical thickness in parietal and occipital areas. The largest positive effects were observed in regions enriched for genes involved in mitochondrial respiration.

Conclusion

Physical activity is associated with cortical thickness, but its effect is not uniform across the brain. Physical activity may particularly benefit cortical regions with a relatively high oxidative demand.