bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
El debate transatlántico sobre la definición y actuación ante la ‘desinformación’: una agenda de investigación
Authors: Oleart Álvaro , Bouza Luis
Published: February 2022

Las esferas públicas son hoy objetos muy diferentes a los que iniciaron los procesos de globalización. Uno de los aspectos novedosos de las esferas públicas actuales es la creciente influencia de las plataformas de redes sociales y la desinformación que circula en ellas, pues ha sido un factor fundamental en cómo se desarrolla actualmente la comunicación política en general, y las campañas electorales en particular. Este artículo trata de delinear una agenda de investigación sobre cómo investigar la construcción de este nuevo objeto político tanto a nivel de debate político como de marco regulatorio. Proponemos estudiar este objeto político desde la perspectiva de una disputa en el emergente campo transnacional por definir la desinformación, lo cual tiene implicaciones tanto teóricas, metodológicas como normativas. Argumentamos que hay diferentes campos preexistentes (el del periodismo, el de la seguridad internacional) que se ven afectados por la emergencia del nuevo campo transnacional de la desinformación y que los actores de cada campo tratan de establecer las reglas del juego, y que es precisamente la preexistencia de estos campos lo que lleva a los actores presentes en ellos a politizar y despolitizar selectivamente ciertos aspectos.
A historiographical overview of tobacco during the Russian Empire
Authors: Yányshev Nésterova Irina
Published: February 2022

The purpose of the article is to present a historiographical balance of the Russian tobacco studies in the long term, from the seventeenth century Muscovy up until the end of the Russian Empire in 1917. Tobacco studies are understood as the legislation, the regions of cultivation, the production and trade, the revenues, etc., within the afore-mentioned period. The paper classifies the bibliography by the country’s origin and in chronological order, revealing the works of the Russian Imperial scholars, Soviet researchers, contemporary Russian authors and foreign researchers. The article intends to organize the information already published and to set forth approximate directions for future research.
Research progress of flexible magnetic films and devices
Authors: Yang Hua-Li , Xie Ya-Li , Lu Zeng-Xing , Wang Zhi-Ming , Li Run-Wei ,   Key Laboratory of Magnetic Materials and Devices, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Acedemy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
Published: February 2022

With the rise of the internet of things, humanoid robots, and mobile healthcare services, etc., flexible electronic materials and devices have received extensive attention. Sensors and memories based on magnetic materials are important components of electronic devices. With the development of flexible film material preparation technology, one has prepared high-quality flexible and even stretchable magnetic metal and oxide films, which exhibit not only greater deformation capability, but also new physical effects and responses. Most recent studies show that flexible magnetoelectronic devices are advantageous in non-contact sensing, highly sensitive strain detection, and super-resolution tactile sensing, showing their broad application prospects. In this work, the research progress of this emerging field is reviewed from the aspects of the preparation of flexible magnetic materials, the regulation of physical properties and the applications of devices, and the future development trend is also presented.
Spatial distribution and ecological risk assessment of heavy metals in karst soils from the Yinjiang County, Southwest China
Authors: Han Ruiyin , Xu Zhifang
Published: February 2022

Background

Soil heavy metals (HMs) under different land-use types have diverse effects, which may trigger the ecological risk. To explore the potential sources of HMs in karst soils, the spatial distribution and geochemical behavior of HMs based on different land-use types are employed in this study.

Methods

Soil samples (n = 47) were collected in three suites of karst soil profiles from the secondary forest, abandoned cropland and shrubland in Yinjiang, Southwest China. The concentrations of Ni, Mn, Cr, Pb, Cd and Mo were determined to give a comprehensive understanding of the possible sources of these HMs and evaluate the potential ecological risk in Yinjiang County.

Results

The mean concentrations of HMs in all profiles followed the same order: Mn > Cr > Ni > Pb > Mo > Cd. Meanwhile, the concentrations of most HMs roughly increased with the depth. Additionally, the concentrations of HMs were mostly correlated with soil pH and SOC, rather than with clay and silt proportions. By contrast, with the enrichment factors (EF), geo-accumulation (Igeo) and potential ecological risk index (PERI) of HMs in soil under different land-use types, the results indicated that these HMs exhibited non-pollution (Igeo < 0) and no ecological risk (PERI < 30) to human health in soils of Yinjiang County.

Conclusions

The distribution of HMs is dominated by weathering in the karst area, and the effects of agricultural inputs on the enrichment of soil HMs in Yinjiang County are limited. This further state that the arrangement of the local agricultural structure is reasonable.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi increase crop yields by improving biomass under rainfed condition: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Shanwei , Shi Zhaoyong , Chen Xianni , Gao Jiakai , Wang Xugang
Published: February 2022

Background

Rainfed agriculture plays key role in ensuring food security and maintain ecological balance. Especially in developing areas, most grain food are produced rainfed agricultural ecosystem. Therefore, the increase of crop yields in rainfed agricultural ecosystem becomes vital as well as ensuring global food security.

Methods

The potential roles of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in improving crop yields under rainfed condition were explored based on 546 pairs of observations published from 1950 to 2021.

Results

AMF inoculation increased 23.0% crop yields based on 13 popular crops under rainfed condition. Not only was crop biomass of shoot and root increased 24.2% and 29.6% by AMF inocula, respectively but also seed number and pod/fruit number per plant were enhanced markedly. Further, the effect of AMF on crop yields depended on different crop groups. AMF improved more yield of N-fixing crops than non-N-fixing crops. The effect of AMF changed between grain and non-grain crops with the effect size of 0.216 and 0.352, respectively. AMF inoculation enhances stress resistance and photosynthesis of host crop in rainfed agriculture.

Conclusion

AMF increased crop yields by enhancing shoot biomass due to the improvement of plant nutrition, photosynthesis, and stress resistance in rainfed field. Our findings provide a new view for understanding the sustainable productivity in rainfed agroecosystem, which enriched the theory of AMF functional diversity. This study provided a theoretical and technical way for sustainable production under rainfed agriculture.
Artificial Neural Network and Its Application Research Progress in Chemical Process
Authors: Sun Li , Liang Fei , Cui Wutai
Published: February 2022

Most chemical processes, such as distillation, absorption, extraction, and catalytic reactions, are extremely complex processes affected by multiple factors. As a result, the relationships between their input and output variables are non-linear, and it is not easy to optimize or control them using traditional methods. Artificial neural network is a systematic structure composed of multiple neuron models. By simulating many basic functions of the nervous system of living organisms, nonlinear control can be realized without relying on mathematical models, and it is especially suitable for more complex control objects. This article will introduce artificial neural networks' basic principles and development history, and review its application research progress in chemical process control, fault diagnosis, and process optimization.
Impact of Gender on the Prevalence of Depression in the Population of Quetta, Pakistan
Authors: Fatima Maria , Ul Haq Noman , Nasim Aqeel , Bibi Murad , Ali Khizar , Ereej Nelofer , Naveed Rida
Published: February 2022

Background: Depression is one of the most prevalent and debilitating psychiatric disorders in the world. Women are more likely to suffer from depression compared with men.

Aim: This study aimed to examine the prevalence of depression symptoms among the population and the relationships between gender and depressive symptoms along with severity level.

Study Design: This was a cross-sectional study conducted from June 2020 to March 2021 in a different area of Quetta city.

Methodology: A total of 502 participants (female 274, male 228) with ages ranging from 18 to 80 years. The study used Patient Health Questionnaires (PHQ-9) which are already validated (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.844) and available online, along with the questionnaire; certain demographic characteristics are also added to measure the symptoms of depression. SPSS Version 26. Mean, standard deviation, frequency, percentage, Chi-square test and Man Whitney U- test were applied for statistical analysis.

Results: The results showed that 316 (63%) participants were reported having depressive symptoms. Of these 316 participants, 166 (33.1%) persons were suffering from mild, 87 (17.3%) from moderate, and 63 (12.6%) from severe depression symptoms out of all those who had symptoms of depression 195(61%) were female. Further it is disclosed that gender is statistically significant demographic characters that influence the prevalence of depression p < 0.01.

Conclusion: Study concluded that gender had a significant role on depression and the increase number of females suggest that female having more depression as compare to males.
Rehabilitation in Operated Case of Neck of Femur Fracture: A Case Report
Authors: Sawra Anisha K. , Jawade Swapna , Chitale Neha
Published: February 2022

Femoral neck fracture is a common and hazardous condition of the elderly, whose morbidity is constantly increasing with population ageing and has become a serious social burden. Prosthetic joint replacement can successfully relieve pain and restore joint function. As a result, an increasing number of doctors consider it a primary treatment option for displaced femoral neck fractures in the elderly. Patients and society, however, are burdened by the lengthy procedure and hefty cost. The surgery technique for femur fracture neck fractures should be redefined as medical technology advances. Individual therapy options should be determined by the therapeutic indication and the clinical status of the patient. Personalized therapy techniques for elderly patients with femoral neck fractures should be established. The fractures causes radiating pain to the knee. Inability to bear weight. Shortening or sideways rotation of affected leg. It causes external rotation deformity, shortening, unable to ambulate, echymosis, restricted movements. The main cause of femoral neck fracture is a medical condition called osteoporosis which causes the bones to become thin and weak due to loss to bone mass. A femoral neck fracture can tear the blood vessels and cut off the blood supply to the femoral head. If the blood supply to the femoral head is lost, in bone tissue avascular necrosis may occur, leading to the eventual collapse of the bone.
Estimating the Association of Ultrasonographical Placental Grading in Utero to Gestational Age and Feto-maternal outcomes in Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy
Authors: Patel Twisha , Pajai Sandhya
Published: February 2022

Background: Worldwide, about 5-8% of all pregnant females are affected by hypertensive disorders. In rural India, the incidence is 10%. This entity has become a significant cause of maternal mortality and morbidity, resulting in 10-15% of all maternal fatalities in developing nations, particularly in developing nations. Hence, identifying this entity in pregnant females and its timely management is vital for both mother and baby. Gestational hypertension can cause placental insufficiency due to narrowing and occlusion of uteroplacental vessels leading to intrauterine growth retardation. This study aims to detect placental grading by ultrasonography in the third trimester in cases of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and to assess its correlation with fetal-maternal outcomes.

Methodology: This will be a cross-sectional study carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AVBRH, Wardha. About 130 pregnant normotensive females and 130 hypertensive pregnant females will be included in the study. Baseline data such as age, sex, parity, routine laboratory data, PIH profile, sonography scans will be collected. All the patients will be followed till delivery, and feto-maternal outcomes will be assessed. Data will be analyzed with appropriate statistical tests.

Expected Outcome: A significant correlation is expected between higher placental grading in hypertensive pregnant females compared to normotensive patients and will have a significant association with perinatal and fetal morbidity.
Comparative Evaluation of Surface Roughness of Cention N after Brushing Simulation with Herbal and Fluoridated Toothpaste - An In-vitro Study
Authors: Arsath N. Mohamed , Ganesh S. Balaji , Jayalakshmi S.
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Cention N, a new alternative tooth coloured resin based filling material. Toothbrushing abrasion is a key issue in restorative dentistry. A smooth surface is a crucial factor to be considered for establishing a successful restoration because the surface roughness of a restorative material results in plaque deposition, discoloration of the restoration, microleakage and secondary caries. The present study aims in evaluating the surface roughness of Cention N before and after brushing with herbal toothpaste and fluoridated toothpaste.

Materials and Methods: A total of 8 Cention N samples were prepared and randomly divided into two groups into 2 groups as Group A- herbal toothpaste(n=4), Group B- fluoridated toothpaste(n=4). The samples were placed in a brushing simulator for 30000 cycles and their surface roughness was evaluated by using stylus profilometer-Mitutoyo SJ 310 and with the results collected a statistical analysis was performed using the statistical software “SPSS VERSION 23” and its results are demonstrated in the form of bar graph.

Results: The Ra values of both the samples before and after brushing simulation was constant and only the Rq and Rz values showed difference between the groups. There was no notable changes in surface roughness parameters between the groups. The statistical “paired t test” analysis depicts that the p value for Rz parameter was 0.359 which is (p<0.05), hence statistically insignificant.

Conclusion: Brushing simulation did not influence the surface roughness of Cention N restorative material. There was no significant increase or decrease in surface roughness values after brushing simulation which indicates cention N material can withstand abrasive forces, but the results can vary in oral cavity environment.
Assessment of the Dental Students and Dental Practitioners Awareness about Bleeding Disorders across Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alnaim Tariq Abdullatif , Almajed Omar Sami , Alqahtani Saud Salman , Alhulibi Ibrahim Abdulwahab , Bokhari Syed Akhtar Hussain
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Bleeding disorders are a group of disorders which results from defective platlets functions or coagulation or both and it can be classified into platlets disorders, blood vessel disorders and coagulation factors disorders. Bleeding disorder patients undergoing dental procedures may need special management before dental procedure.

Aim: To assess the awareness level of the dental students and practitioners in Saudi Arabia about the bleeding disorders.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 502 dental students and dentists in Saudi Arabia. This was a questionnaire based internet survey consisted of 331 clinical year dental students and 171 dentists. The questionnaire contained 15 questions.

Results: The highest percentage of participants were from the Eastern Province (31.1%). Almost half of the participants were males (51.2%). The dentists represented (34.1%). Around (47.8%) of participants reported that they had encountered bleeding disorder patients before. Almost (50.8%) participants who encountered those patients said that they referred them to a physician for a consent. Six questions were used to assess the knowledge of the participants about the bleeding disorders based on the number of the correct answers. Only (1%) were able to answer all the questions correctly. Most of the participants (93.8%) said that they need to learn more about bleeding disorders.

Conclusion: Majority of the dental students and general practitioners had poor knowledge of the management of bleeding disorder patients.We strongly recommend intensifying dental educational programs and more training is required in management of patients with medical complications.
A Case Report on High Contagious and Rapid Spread of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in Hypertensive Client: An Agent of Emerging and Reemerging Infection
Authors: Kothe Amruta , Pohekar Savita , Alnewar Pragati
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a potentially life-threatening. Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is the rapidly progressive respiratory illness which may be due to the pathogens that have potentials for large scale epidemics. MERSCOV AND H7N9 (Avian influenza) has been described by SARS. The causative organism of a SARS yet not being identified or it cannot be easily established. SARS increases morbidity and mortality which is associated with the COVID -19. COVID-19 can be complicated by severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and may often cause multisystem involvement is encountered. SARS patients had mandatory needs of intensive care unit hospitalization and mechanical ventilation.

Main Symptoms and/or Important Clinical Findings: A 50 years old female was admitted in A.V.B.R.H. with chief complaints of cold, cough (dry, non-productive, non-bloody), vomiting, loose stool, breathlessness since 3 days. The patient was hypertensive for which she was taking Tab Amlo. After undergone certain investigation like complete blood test, HRCT, ECG and diagnosed as SARS and shifted to Intensive care unit.

The Main Diagnoses, Therapeutic Interventions, and Outcomes: A 50 years old female with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) with chief complaints of cold, cough (dry, non-productive, non-bloody), vomiting, loose stool, breathlessness, the doctors manage her initially withantibiotic, steroids, vitamin C, multivitamin and anticoagulant and adequate nursing management.

Nursing Perspectives: The nursing interventions initiated for managing present case aremonitor the vital sign i.e., blood pressure, pulse, respiration, temperature, maintain oxygen level and intake output. BIPAP site observed and ensure that the patients is comfortable. Patient assessed for GCS, Glucose level and sign of cyanosis, monitoring the ESR, D-DIMER, RT PCR, FERRITIN other investigations like HRCT.  

Conclusion: In the Present case the patient of 50-year-old female with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) it has been managed with the therapeutic treatment, right now the patient condition is worsened.
Effects of Charge Dynamics in the Emission Layer on the Operational Lifetimes of Blue Phosphorescent Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Yang Kwangmo , Nam Sungho , Kim Joonghyuk , Kwon Eun Suk , Jung Yongsik , Choi Hyeonho , Kim Ji Whan , Lee Jaesang
Published: February 2022

Despite more than 20 years of research, the root cause of the impractically short lifetimes of blue phosphorescent organic light‐emitting diodes (PHOLEDs) has remained unclear. To overcome this, the authors investigate how the electrical properties of the emission layer (EML) of blue PHOLEDs affect degradation of the devices. It is found that a large density of dopant carriers is the dominant factor triggering triplet‐polaron annihilation (TPA), which is a major defect‐generation and hence lifetime‐reduction mechanism. In order to reduce the generation of the TPA‐induced defects to ensure long device lifetimes, the dopant carrier density should be minimized by suppressing the spontaneous charge transfer from the host to the dopant initially and by supplying sufficient charges with opposite polarity into the EML. However, there exists another critical factor that offsets the low overall density of defects against device lifetimes—that is, the non‐uniform distribution of defects leading to intense exciton quenching. These two degradation factors are predetermined, and hence can be controlled, by the charge mobilities of the PHOLED EML. Given these considerations, it is demonstrated that the long‐lifetime blue PHOLEDs can be realized.
A Bioinspired Five‐Coordinated Single‐Atom Iron Nanozyme for Tumor Catalytic Therapy
Authors: Xu Bolong , Li Shanshan , Zheng Lirong , Liu Yunhang , Han Along , Zhang Jin , Huang Zhijun , Xie Haijiao , Fan Kelong , Gao Lizeng , Liu Huiyu
Published: February 2022

Single‐atom nanozymes (SAzymes) represent a new research frontier in the biomedical fields. The rational design and controllable synthesis of SAzymes with well‐defined electronic and geometric structures are essential for maximizing their enzyme‐like catalytic activity and therapeutic efficacy but remain challenging. Here, a melamine‐mediated pyrolysis activation strategy is reported for the controllable fabrication of iron‐based SAzyme containing five‐coordinated structure (FeN5), identified by transmission electron microscopy imaging and X‐ray absorption fine structure analyses. The FeN5 SAzyme exhibits superior peroxidase‐like activity owing to the optimized coordination structure, and the corresponding catalytic efficiency of Fe‐species in the FeN5 SAzyme is 7.64 and 3.45 × 105 times higher than those in traditional FeN4 SAzyme and Fe3O4 nanozyme, respectively, demonstrated by steady‐state kinetic assay. In addition, the catalytic mechanism is jointly disclosed by experimental results and density functional theory studies. The as‐synthesized FeN5 SAzyme demonstrates significantly enhanced antitumor effect in vitro and in vivo due to the excellent peroxidase‐like activity under tumor microenvironment.
A Redox Couple Strategy Enables Long‐Cycling Li‐ and Mn‐Rich Layered Oxide Cathodes by Suppressing Oxygen Release
Authors: Shao Qinong , Gao Panyu , Yan Chenhui , Gao Mingxi , Du Wubin , Chen Jian , Yang Yaxiong , Gan Jiantuo , Wu Zhijun , Zhang Chenyang , Chen Gairong , Zheng Xusheng , Lin Yue , Jiang Yinzhu , Sun Wenping , Liu Yongfeng , Gao Mingxia , Pan Hongge
Published: February 2022

Li‐ and Mn‐rich layered oxides (LMROs) are considered the most promising cathode candidates for next‐generation high‐energy lithium‐ion batteries. The poor cycling stability and fast voltage fading resulting from oxygen release during charging, however, severely hinders their practical application. Herein, a strategy of introducing an additional redox couple is proposed to eliminate the persistent problem of oxygen release. As a proof of concept, the cycling stability of Li1.2Ni0.13Co0.13Mn0.54O2, which is a typical LMRO cathode, is substantially enhanced with the help of the S2−/SO32− redox couple, and the capacity shows no decay with a retention of 100% after 700 cycles at 1C, far superior to the bare counterpart (61.7%). The surface peroxide ions (O22−) are readily chemically reduced back to immobile O2− by S2− during charging, accompanied by the formation of SO32−, which plays a critical role in stabilizing the oxygen lattice and eventually inhibiting the release of oxygen. More importantly, the S2− ions are regenerated during the following discharging process and participate in the chemical redox reaction again. The findings shed light on a potential direction to tackle the poor cycling stability of high‐energy anion‐redox cathode materials for rechargeable metal‐ion batteries.
Heterojunction Annealing Enabling Record Open‐Circuit Voltage in Antimony Triselenide Solar Cells
Authors: Tang Rong , Chen Shuo , Zheng Zhuang‐Hao , Su Zheng‐Hua , Luo Jing‐Ting , Fan Ping , Zhang Xiang‐Hua , Tang Jiang , Liang Guang‐Xing
Published: February 2022

Despite the fact that antimony triselenide (Sb2Se3) thin‐film solar cells have undergone rapid development in recent years, the large open‐circuit voltage (VOC) deficit still remains as the biggest bottleneck, as even the world‐record device suffers from a large VOC deficit of 0.59 V. Here, an effective interface engineering approach is reported where the Sb2Se3/CdS heterojunction (HTJ) is subjected to a post‐annealing treatment using a rapid thermal process. It is found that nonradiative recombination near the Sb2Se3/CdS HTJ, including interface recombination and space charge region recombination, is greatly suppressed after the HTJ annealing treatment. Ultimately, a substrate Sb2Se3/CdS thin‐film solar cell with a competitive power conversion efficiency of 8.64% and a record VOC of 0.52 V is successfully fabricated. The device exhibits a much mitigated VOC deficit of 0.49 V, which is lower than that of any other reported efficient antimony chalcogenide solar cell.
A Fiber‐Based 3D Lithium Host for Lean Electrolyte Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Yu Sicen , Wu Zhaohui , Holoubek John , Liu Haodong , Hopkins Emma , Xiao Yuxuan , Xing Xing , Lee Myeong Hwan , Liu Ping
Published: February 2022

3D hosts are promising to extend the cycle life of lithium metal anodes but have rarely been implemented with lean electrolytes thus impacting the practical cell energy density. To overcome this challenge, a 3D host that is lightweight and easy to fabricate with optimum pore size that enables full utilization of its pore volume, essential for lean electrolyte operations, is reported. The host is fabricated by casting a VGCF (vapor‐grown carbon fiber)‐based slurry loaded with a sparingly soluble rubidium nitrate salt as an additive. The network of fibers generates uniform pores of ≈3 µm in diameter with a porosity of 80%, while the nitrate additive enhances lithiophilicity. This 3D host delivers an average coulombic efficiency of 99.36% at 1 mA cm−2 and 1 mAh cm−2 for over 860 cycles in half‐cell tests. Full cells containing an anode with 1.35‐fold excess lithium paired with LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 (NMC811) cathodes exhibit capacity retention of 80% over 176 cycles at C/2 under a lean electrolyte condition of 3 g Ah−1. This work provides a facile and scalable method to advance 3D lithium hosts closer to practical lithium‐metal batteries.
Visualizing Hot‐Carrier Expansion and Cascaded Transport in WS2 by Ultrafast Transient Absorption Microscopy
Authors: Liu Qirui , Wei Ke , Tang Yuxiang , Xu Zhongjie , Cheng Xiang'ai , Jiang Tian
Published: February 2022

The competition between different spatiotemporal carrier relaxation determines the carrier harvesting in optoelectronic semiconductors, which can be greatly optimized by utilizing the ultrafast spatial expansion of highly energetic carriers before their energy dissipation via carrier–phonon interactions. Here, the excited‐state dynamics in layered tungsten disulfide (WS2) are primarily imaged in the temporal, spatial, and spectral domains by transient absorption microscopy. Ultrafast hot carrier expansion is captured in the first 1.4 ps immediately after photoexcitation, with a mean diffusivity up to 980 cm2 s−1. This carrier diffusivity then rapidly weakens, reaching a conventional linear spread of 10.5 cm2 s−1 after 2 ps after the hot carriers cool down to the band edge and form bound excitons. The novel carrier diffusion can be well characterized by a cascaded transport model including 3D thermal transport and thermo‐optical conversion, in which the carrier temperature gradient and lattice thermal transport govern the initial hot carrier expansion and long‐term exciton diffusion rates, respectively. The ultrafast hot carrier expansion breaks the limit of slow exciton diffusion in 2D transition metal dichalcogenides, providing potential guidance for high‐performance applications and thermal management of optoelectronic technology.
From dietary adaptation in the past to drug metabolism of today: An example of NAT genes in the Croatian Roma
Authors: Stojanović Marković Anita , Zajc Petranović Matea , Škobalj Marko , Poloni Estella S. , Pichler Oberški Lana , Škarić‐Jurić Tatjana , Peričić Salihović Marijana
Published: February 2022

Objectives

The evolutionary mechanisms that shape the genetic structure of a population left their mark on genes that metabolize drugs. The Roma are an example of a population in which the migrations, isolation, and multiple founder effects have affected its genetic structure. In this study, we investigated NAT1 and NAT2 genes, members of the xenobiotic‐metabolizing NAT gene family in three Roma groups from Croatia to explore the specificities of the Roma population in relation to other populations.

Materials and Methods

Seven SNPs in the NAT1 gene and seven in the NAT2 gene were genotyped in 439 Roma from Croatia, members of three socio‐culturally different and geographically distant groups (two groups of Vlax/Bayash Roma and one Balkan Roma group). Intra‐ and inter‐population variation was assessed in the Roma and 2504 individuals from the 1000 Genomes project database.

Results

The distribution of haplotypes differed significantly between the Roma groups for NAT2, but not for NAT1. Translation of NAT2 diplotypes into acetylation phenotypes showed significant differences between populations. The Roma from Balkan had the highest frequency of slow acetylators among the studied populations. In the overall worldwide sample, population differentiation was higher for NAT2 than for NAT1 haplotypes consistent with pairwise genetic distances that were smaller for NAT1 than for NAT2. The Ewens–Watterson test results suggest that NAT1 is subjected to directional selection, while NAT2 is evolving neutrally.

Conclusion

The distribution of variations within NAT genes in the Croatian Roma population is similar to that in the surrounding European populations. The significantly different distribution of NAT2 gene haplotypes and consequent phenotypes between the three investigated Roma groups is probably the result of genetic drift due to different demographic history and socio‐cultural isolation. The highest frequency of slow acetylators in Balkan Roma compared to the world populations makes them more prone to develop a NAT gene‐related adverse drug reaction than other populations.
The link between brain functional network connectivity and genetic risk of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Sendi Mohammad S.E. , Zendehrouh Elaheh , Miller Robyn L. , Mormino Elizabeth C. , Salat David H. , Calhoun Vince D.
Published: February 2022

Background

Individuals carrying the ɛ4 allele have the highest risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) compared with those carrying ɛ3 and ɛ2 allele, whereas ɛ2 allele has the lowest risk. Although previous studies explored the link between the genetic risk of AD and static functional network connectivity (sFNC), limited studies have evaluated the association between dynamic FNC (dFNC) and AD risk. Here, we explore how the dFNC differs between individuals with genetic risk for AD.

Method

We used rs‐fMRI data of 991 healthy brains (404 females) and their demographic information from the Open Access Series of Imaging Studies‐3 cohort. The participants' age at scanning time was ranging from 42.46 to 95.39, with a mean of 69.81. We put the data into three groups including group1 (N=135, 63 females) including subjects with ɛ2 allele (i.e., ɛ2/ ɛ2, ɛ2/ ɛ3, and ɛ3/ɛ2), group2 (N=558, 219 females) including subjects with only ɛ3 allele (i.e., ɛ3/ ɛ3), and group3 (N=298, 122 females) including subjects with ɛ4 allele (i.e., ɛ3/ ɛ4, ɛ4/ ɛ3, and ɛ4/ɛ4). Age and gender were not significantly different across groups. Group‐ICA was used to extract 53 components. The sliding window and Pearson correlation were used to measure the dFNC among components K‐means algorithm was applied to partition dFNC windows into three distinct states. We calculated each subject's occupancy rate (OCR) in each state. A two‐sample t‐test was used to compare the OCR of groups in each state (Fig. 1).

Result

Subject with a lower AD risk spend more time in state1 with more positive connectivity within cognitive control network (CCN) and between CCN and sensory network (Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B: pcorrected<0.05). Interestingly, in this state, the difference of OCR among subjects with different AD risk was more significant in females (Fig. 2C), while males did not show any significant difference in their OCR across three groups (Fig. 2D). Females with higher AD risk had more OCR in state 3 with relatively lower within CCN connectivity.

Conclusion

Results support the use of dFNC features as a potential biomarker of AD genetic risk for females. We also showed the role of CCN connectivity associated with the AD risk.
Lessons learned from offering a telehealth intervention for people with dementia and their caregivers
Authors: Laver Kate ,   Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute
Published: February 2022

Background

There is good evidence that dyadic interventions (working with people with dementia and their caregivers) are beneficial for both the person and their caregiver. Dyadic interventions typically involve information provision, education and skills training in order to work towards goals or overcome particular care challenges. A key limitation of dyadic interventions is that they have typically been delivered over a number of consultations in the person’s home. In the context of scarce resources in health care and a global pandemic there has been increasing interest in how to offer evidence‐based services using telehealth delivery.

Method

In this presentation we will share our experience and tips on telehealth delivery for people with dementia and their carers. We conducted a randomised controlled trial in which 63 dyads all received the same dyadic intervention. However, 32 dyads received visits in their own home and 31 dyads used telehealth methods to access the program. We collected information about whether or not the person had existing internet access or devices and we loaned a device (connected to the internet) if required. We established procedures for troubleshooting and for ensuring that people with dementia and their carers could use the technology easily, could communicate effectively and could adapt in‐person consultations to telehealth consultations.

Result

Caregivers took primary responsibility for use of the device and scheduling appointments. The average age of caregivers was 69 in the telehealth group. None of the participants withdrew due to challenges in technology and few technological issues arose or impacted on the trial. Our experiences in using telehealth with this population will be discussed.

Conclusion

Telehealth for people with dementia and their caregiver poses challenges however these can be overcome. Dyadic interventions can be offered using telehealth delivery and are beneficial in improving access and reducing the costs associated with travel time.
Advanced diffusion‐weighted MRI methods demonstrate improved sensitivity to white matter aging: Percentile charts for over 15,000 UK Biobank participants
Authors: Lawrence Katherine E. , Nabulsi Leila , Santhalingam Vigneshwaran , Abaryan Zvart , Villalon‐Reina Julio E. , Nir Talia M. , Gari Iyad Ba , Zhu Alyssa H. , Haddad Elizabeth , Muir Alexandra M. , Laltoo Emily , John John P. , Venkatasubramanian Ganesan , Jahanshad Neda , Thompson Paul M.
Published: February 2022

Background

Aging and Alzheimer’s disease are both associated with alterations in the brain’s white matter. Understanding how the brain’s white matter changes as we age may also improve our understanding of processes involved in Alzheimer’s disease. Here we investigated the ability of both traditional and advanced diffusion‐weighted MRI methods to capture age effects on white matter microstructure in a large‐scale, population‐based sample of middle‐aged and older adults.

Method

Diffusion‐weighted MRI (dMRI) scans were analyzed from 15,628 UK Biobank participants (age: 45‐80 years; 47.6% male). Diffusivity metrics were derived using four dMRI reconstruction models, including traditional diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and the following advanced dMRI models: the tensor distribution function (TDF), neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI), and mean apparent propagator MRI (MAPMRI). Metrics were projected to a standard white matter skeleton using publicly available ENIGMA protocols based on FSL’s tract‐based spatial statistics and the JHU atlas. Mean values for each dMRI metric were extracted from the whole white matter skeleton (full WM) and for the corpus callosum (CC). We investigated effects of age, sex, and their interaction on each dMRI metric for the full WM and the CC separately, to rank the sensitivity of these different metrics. Sex‐stratified centile reference curves were created for each dMRI metric to provide normative charts of white matter aging for this population.

Result

Participant age and sex were both significantly associated with full WM and CC microstructure for nearly all dMRI metrics, with TDF exhibiting the greatest sensitivity to age and NODDI the greatest sensitivity to participant sex (Figure 1). A significant age by sex interaction was observed in the full WM and the CC for many dMRI measures; NODDI detected this interaction with the greatest sensitivity. (Figure 1). Normative centile reference curves are presented for all dMRI indices separately for men and women (Figures 2 and 3).

Conclusion

Participant age and sex robustly impact the brain’s white matter microstructure, with advanced dMRI models displaying the greatest sensitivity to such differences. These findings offer a normative reference to guide future studies and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
Cognitive function of the elderly without dementia in Korea: Cross‐sectional study
Authors: Bae Mi‐ae , Chang Kyung Ja
Published: February 2022

Background

The decline of cognitive function is common in the elderly. However, it should not be overlooked as it could be a risk factor for mild cognitive impairment or dementia in the future. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the cognitive function of the elderly without dementia in Korea.

Methods

The subjects were 274 elderly (78 males and 196 females) without dementia living in some areas of Korea. The cognitive function of the subjects was evaluated using the Mini‐Mental State Examination for Dementia Screening (MMSE‐DS), and compared by gender, age, educational period. In addition, the proportion of subjects below the criteria score based on demographic information of MMSE‐DS was evaluated, which indicates the possibility of developing mild cognitive impairment or dementia in the future. All data were collected through the face‐to‐face examination from 2015 to 2020, and statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0.

Results

The total MMSE‐DS score of subjects was good at 24.9 points, but scores of female elderly were significantly lower than those of male elderly in total score, place orientation, attention, and language (p<0.05). The scores of the elderly aged over 80 were significantly lower than those of the elderly aged 65‐69 and 70‐79 in total score, time orientation, place orientation, and language (p<0.001). The total score of the uneducated elderly was significantly lower than that of the elderly who graduated from elementary, middle, and high school (p<0.001). The proportions of subjects below the criteria score of MMSE‐DS were 16.4% in all subjects, 20.5% in male elderly, and 14.8% in female elderly. The proportions were 12.9 to 20.6% by age and by education period. The total MMSE‐DS score of the subjects was shown to be positive correlations with age and education period (p<0.001).

Conclusions

These results showed that cognitive function were lower in female elderly, the elderly aged over 80, and uneducated elderly, and proportions of the elderly with a high risk of dementia were 10 to 20% of the all subjects. Therefore, it is necessary to prepare measures such as regular mental health screening for early detection and preventive management of dementia in the elderly.
Perivascular spaces are associated with tau pathophysiology and synaptic dysfunction in early Alzheimer’s continuum
Authors: Vilor‐Tejedor Natalia , Ciampa Iacopo , Operto Greg , Falcon Carles , Suarez‐Calvet Marc , Crous‐Bou Marta , Shekari Mahnaz , Arenaza‐Urquijo Eider M. , Milà‐Alomà Marta , Grau‐Rivera Oriol , Minguillón Carolina , Kollmorgen Gwendlyn , Suridjan Ivonne , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Guigó Roderic , Molinuevo Jose , Gispert Juan Domingo ,   for the ALFA Study
Published: February 2022

Background

Perivascular spaces (PVS) have an important role in the elimination of metabolic waste from the brain. However, the relationship between enlarged PVS (ePVS) and risk factors or pathophysiological mechanisms involved in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remains unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the ePVS, demographic and cardiovascular risk factors, cognitive performance and CSF biomarkers of several pathophysiological mechanisms for AD.

Method

The study included 322 middle‐aged cognitively unimpaired participants from the ALFA+ study, many within the Alzheimer’s continuum. The exploratory Roche NeuroToolKit assays, a panel of automated robust prototype assays, and Elecsys® immunoassays were used to measure CSF Aβ42, Aβ40, p‐tau and t‐tau, NfL, neurogranin, TREM2, YKL40, GFAP, IL6, S100, and α‐synuclein. Cognitive performance was measured using a Preclinical Alzheimer Cognitive Composite (PACC) score. PVS in the basal ganglia (BG) and centrum semiovale (CS) were assessed based on a validated 4‐point visual rating scale [Figure 1]. Odds ratios were calculated for associations of cognitive performance, cardiovascular and AD risk factors with ePVS using logistic and multinomial models adjusted for relevant confounders. Models were stratified by Aβ status (positivity defined as Aβ42/40 < 0.071).

Result

The degree of PVS enlargement significantly increased with age in both BG and CS regions independently of cardiovascular risk factors. Higher levels of p‐tau, t‐tau, and neurogranin were significantly associated with ePVS in the CS of Aβ‐positive individuals, after accounting for relevant confounders [Figure 2], but no other significant associations were found.

Conclusion

Our results support that ePVS in the CS are associated with tau pathophysiology, and synaptic dysfunction in asymptomatic stages of the Alzheimer’s continuum.
Quality of life, mood and cognitive performance in older adults with cognitive impairment during the first wave of COVID 19 in Argentina
Authors: Aragón Irina , Flores Ignacio , Dorman Guido , Rojas Galeno , Sanjurjo Natalia Sierra , O'Neill Santiago
Published: February 2022

Background

In Argentina, government has established lock down on 19 March in order to decrease SARS‐COV 2 infection. These restrictions have remained effective for long time, with increase of anxiety depression and insomnia as shown in several studies. Older population was particularly at risk due to greater limitations to go out. Our objective was to evaluate the impact of confinement in quality of life, mood and cognitive performance of older adults with cognitive impairment.

Method

Longitudinal descriptive‐observational study. Patients with cognitive impairment (CDR 0.5‐1) attending to virtual cognitive stimulation sessions have participated. Participants have completed by themselves Quality of Life in Alzheimer's Disease scale (QOL AD), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI‐II), Test your Memory (TYM) and an attention and executive battery created by our institution. Same assessments were done at the beginning of the lock down and 7 months later. SPSS program was used and means, standard deviations and paired‐samples t test were calculated.

Result

51 adults (43 women, mean age: 68.53 SD: 8.06, mean education: 14.33 SD: 2.63) were included. An increase in BDI ‐II score (p = 0.049) and worse performance in one of the executive attention tests (p = 0.012) were found. No significant differences in total score of QOL‐AD (p = 0.090), TYM (p = 0.067), verbal fluency (p = 0.323) or memory tests (p = 0.098) were found. Reviewing sub items, differences in changes in sleep habits (p = 0.021), decrease in the energy level (p = 0.004), worse subjective record of memory capacity (p = 0.028) and decrease in ability to do housework (p = 0.007) were found. In those who lived alone a higher score in BDI ‐ II (p = 0.030) and TYM (p = 0.22) were found.

Conclusion

This is the first longitudinal study that measures the impact of lockdown on quality of life and cognitive performance in older adults with cognitive impairment in Argentina. Lockdown and isolation have shown worsening of mood and some quality of life variables and decrease in attention. Finally, our results show an increase in depressive symptoms in those patients who lived alone.
Brain structural changes in subjective cognitive decline: A whole brain surface‐based analysis in the FACEHBI cohort
Authors: Alonso‐Lana Silvia , Sotolongo‐Grau Oscar , Tartari Juan Pablo , Sanabria Angela , Alarcón‐Martín Emilio , Valero Sergi , Montrreal Laura , Orellana Adelina , de Rojas Itziar , Vivas Assumpta , Tejero Miguel Angel , Gómez‐Chiari M. , Perissinotti Andrés , Niñerola‐Baizán Aida , Ruiz Agustin , Tarraga Lluis , Marquié Marta , Boada Mercè ,   the FACEHBI Study Group
Published: February 2022

Background

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) has been associated with increased risk of subsequent mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. Evidence from magnetic resonance imaging studies shows that neurodegenerative changes are already present years before dementia and thus, examining brain changes in SCD may contribute to identify potential biomarkers at an early stage of Alzheimer’s disease.

Method

198 individuals with SCD from the FACEHBI cohort were included (124 females; mean age 65.76 years). All subjects underwent magnetic resonance imaging and 18F‐Florbetaben positron emission tomography scan at baseline and were clinically follow‐up. Whole‐brain cortical surface‐based morphometry analysis were conducted using Freesurfer. Changes in cortical morphology (cortical thickness and surface area) were examined in relation to age, gender, brain amyloid beta deposition, ApoE‐e4 status (52 carrier/ 146 non carrier) and progression to MCI or dementia at the 4‐year follow‐up. Age, sex and years of education were included as covariates in all analyses.

Result

At p=0.05 corrected, higher age was associated with widespread cortical thickness reduction and reduced surface area in bilateral parahippocampal, left cuneus and middle frontal and in the right superior frontal cortex. Males had reduced cortical thickness in the right lingual and reduced surface area in the right superior temporal cortex. Higher amyloid beta deposition was related to higher surface area in the left inferior parietal cortex and no significant results were found in relation to ApoE‐e4 status. At the 4‐year follow‐up, 33 subjects had progressed to MCI and 118 remained cognitively unimpaired, but there were no significant differences in baseline cortical thickness or surface area between them. With a liberal threshold of p<0.0001 uncorrected, we found a cluster of reduced cortical thickness in the right isthmus cingulate in those who converted to MCI four years later.

Conclusion

Brain morphological changes in SCD are mainly characterized by cortical thickness reduction in relation to age and increased left inferior parietal surface area in relation to higher brain amyloid burden. Baseline reduced cortical thickness in the right isthmus cingulate is the only region associated with subsequent clinical progression to MCI and thus, it might be a useful predictive biomarker of cognitive decline in SCD individuals.