bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oralidade no espaço acadêmico
Authors: Zembruski Soeli Staub , Dos Santos Adelcio Machado
Published: January 2023

O presente artigo se constitui como sequência do estudo denominado: O olhar da Pesquisadora sobre sua Trajetória Intelectual, no qual são apresentadas as primeiras considerações sobre o processo de formação de identidade linguística da pesquisadora e que se desdobram na análise das manifestações orais tanto da docente quanto dos estudantes de uma turma de mestrado na cidade de Lages, no estado de Santa Catarina. Com o objetivo de melhor compreender os mais diversos aspectos que compõem a comunicação oral, destacadamente no espaço acadêmico. Para responder a estas questões, realizou-se uma análise de material de gravação de aulas síncronas ofertadas durante o período pandêmico em 2020. Também se realizou pesquisa por meio de formulário google para conhecer a percepção dos estudantes em relação à comunicação oral em diferentes ambientes, de modo especial o acadêmico. Os participantes foram 22 estudantes com diferentes perfis profissionais e faixa etária de maioria entre 25 e 50 anos (apenas 01 respondente afirma ter mais de 50 anos). Os resultados revelam que a professora manteve marcas linguísticas de sua infância e adolescência e também que os estudantes, embora admitam a riqueza cultural das variações linguísticas e o uso de expressões coloquiais durante as aulas, consideram a norma culta o padrão linguístico mais apropriado a ser empregado no espaço acadêmico. Espera-se que tais resultados e reflexões contribuam para que ocorram mais investigações acerca do lugar da fala e da espontaneidade no espaço acadêmico, bem como reflexões sobre a centralidade do professor nas aulas.
Awareness of the Rural People on Different Digital Applications, Sites and Channels
Authors: Boruah Munmi , Borah Sayanika , Kalita H. C.
Published: January 2023

Digital literacy provides many opportunities for growth and advancement of the people which is essential to survive in the current tech-dominated world. The present study was conducted with the objective of finding out the socio-economic status of the respondents and to assess the awareness of the rural people on different digital applications, sites and channels. The study was conducted on 120 members of Jorhat and Golaghat District of Assam. Results of the study showed that 70.83 per cent of the respondents belonged to the medium level of socio-economic status and among different digital applications sites and channels in different categories, DD Kishan (Agricultural), Facebook (Social media), ArogyaSetu (Health), Google meet (Videoconferencing), Google Pay (Finance) and Flipkart (online shopping) were found to be more popular as compared to others in their categories.
Growth Performance and Survival of Climbing Perch (Anabas testudineus Bloch) Raised in Conventional and Bioflocs System
Authors: Hanafie Agussyarif , Biyatmoko Danang , Fatmawati . , Arida Fauzana Noor
Published: January 2023

The aim of this research is to analyze the performance of growth and survival of climbing perch (Anabas testudineus Bloch) which was raised in bioflocs and conventional systems. It investigated the  difference in the initial size of the fry stocked with climbing perch has effect. The experimental design used in this study was a Factorial Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 2 factors and 3 replications: Factor A: climbing perch aquaculture Systems; A1: climbing perch in conventional system of; A2: the climbing perch in bioflocs system; Factor B: Initial Size of fry Stocking; B1: fry size 3 ± 0.5cm; B2: fry size 5 ± 0.5cm and B3: fry size 7 ± 0.5cm. The research was conducted for 90 days with daily growth parameters (SGR), weight and length growth, survival rate, food conversion, flocsvolume density (FVD), and main water quality parameters (water temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen and dissolved ammonia).The results showed that the bioflocs system was able to increase the average growth in the range of 12-67% with an average of 29.73% when compared to conventional systems. The highest value for the daily growth rate or Specific Growth Rate (%/day) was for fry with a size of 7 cm in the bioflocs system (8,419%). The fry size of 3 ± 0.5cm in the bioflocs system had the highest difference in standard length (4.33 cm) while the highest average length during maintenance was the seed size of 7 ± 0.5 cm in the bioflocs system. The survival results of climbing perch fish during the study were based on the highest score on the seed size of 3 ± 0.5cm in the bioflocs system. The survival range of the bioflocs system is 94.89 - 99.67% and that of the conventional system is 82.00 - 94.26%. Thus the bioflocs system is able to increase survival in the range of 5-14% when compared to conventional systems. The bioflocs system is able to provide better feed efficiency than conventional systems in the range of 34-39%. The average value of floc volume density  (FVD) in the bioflocs system is in the range of 5.35 – 8.16 ml/L, which is still ideal but can still be improved. Water temperature during the study period, air and water temperatures ranged from 28.54 to 28.71 (ºC), the degree of acidity in all treatments was in the range 6.34 – 7.27, dissolved oxygen levels were in the range 5.77 – 6.90 mg /L) while the average measurement results for ammonia levels (mg/L) were in the range of 0.49 – 0.57 mg/L. The temperature ranges in the studies on conventional and bioflocs systems are within the acceptable range for fish farming Water temperature during the study period, air and water temperatures ranged from 28.54 to 28.71 (ºC), the degree of acidity in all treatments was in the range 6.34 – 7.27, dissolved oxygen levels were in the range 5.77 – 6.90 mg /L) while the average measurement results for ammonia levels (mg/L) were in the range of 0.49 – 0.57 mg/L.
Acute Toxoplasmosis among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic in Kaduna State
Authors: Edward I. U. , Ibrahim G. , Kabiru M. , Ikeh E. I.
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Acute infection of Toxoplasma gondii can be transmitted during pregnancy to the foetus vertically which may cause congenital complications like abortion, stillbirth, visual impairment, seizure, hearing impairment and neurological disorders.

Methodology: A total of 357 pregnant women were screened using ELISA method for acute Toxoplasma gondii (IgM).

Result: The investigation however shows a prevalence of 2.8% (IgM). Ages 16-20 and 26-30 years have the highest prevalence of 3(0.8%) positive. While ages 21-25 and 31-35 years have prevalence of 2(0.6%) positive. However ages 36-40 years are all negative. (p> 0.05).This did not show any statistical significant with the age groups. Northern Senatorial zone has the highest prevalence of 8(2.6%) followed by the Central Senatorial zone with 2(0.2%) while the Southern zone shows no acute Toxoplasmosis,(p <0.05) hence it shows statistical significant. Women in their second trimesters have the highest prevalence of 7(2.0%) followed by first trimesters with prevalence of 2(0.6%) and third trimester with prevalence of 1(0.2%) positive, however it is not statistical significant (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: Therefore the chance of acquiring acute infection of T. gondii is possible during pregnancy and would have potential tragic outcomes for the mother and new-born despite the fact that it can be prevented. The need for aggressive awareness and necessary facilities available for screening of T. gondii during antenatal clinic is necessary.
Characterization of Faecal Sludge in the Oueme Delta
Authors: Lauriane Nissiba Irotori Elsa-Lyne , Virgile Onesime Akowanou Akuemaho , Esperance Justine Deguenon Hontonho , Kpehouenou Goussanou Baruc , Pepin Aina Martin
Published: January 2023

The One of the Sustainable Development Goals aims to: "Ensure access for all to sustainably managed water supply and sanitation services". To meet this challenge, several countries such as Benin have decided to take action to solve sanitation problems. Thus, the general objective of this study is to characterize the sludge in the Oueme Delta in order to know its identity and propose an adequate treatment. The Oueme Delta has a population of about 4,346,336 inhabitants. Based on the methods used for quantification, it results that nearly 64.96% of the sludge produced is found in nature, only 8.63% in the station to undergo treatment and of the remaining 26.41% a part is drained manually or mechanically and ends up in nature and another part always remains in the pits and will never be emptied. In addition, the analysis of the sewage sludge taken from three municipalities of the Delta de l'Oueme reveals that this sludge has a slightly alkaline pH and is highly saline. They are fresh, rich in organic pollutants, nutrients and pathogens given the results of the temperature associated with pH. With an average COD of 37570.93 mgO2/L and an average BOD5 of 5500.66 mgO2/L, the sludge we analysed is poorly biodegradable. These results will be submitted to the stakeholders for assessment in order to reach consistent decisions for the sustainable management of this resource.
Seroprevalence of Cytomegalovirus among Paediatric Patients with Seizures Attending Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Kaduna, North West Nigeria
Authors: Usman Edward I. , J. Reuben Wartu , Maikano Musa A. , D Shetu Edward, , P. Kelechi Samuel
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Cytomegalovirus causes a congenital infection, which poses a great public Health challenge such as hearing loss, seizure and mental disorder among children.

Methodology: Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) was used to screen serum samples (90) collected from Patients presented with Seizure between the ages 0-13 years for Cytomegalovirus IgG specific antibodies.

Results: The presence of CMV IgG specific antibody among Seizure patients obtained from this study recorded a prevalence of 68(75.5%). The age groups 9-13 years presented highest CMV (IgG) specific antibodies response 36(40.0%), followed by ages 5-8 years 22(24.4%) and least for ages 0-4 years 10 (11.1%), P>0.005. The CMV (IgG) specific antibodies response with respect to gender presented male with highest prevalence 50 (55.5%) than their female 18 (20.0%) counterparts P<0.005. 

Conclusion: Therefore CMV is highly prevalent within the study area and the need for necessary facilities to be available in screening pregnant women of the virus in order to prevent the spread vertically to their fetuses thereby increases the risk of Seizure.
Land Use Changes and Extent of Crop Diversification in North Western Zone of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Priyanga V. , Thilagavathi M. , Selvaraj K. N. , Dhevagi P. , Duraisamy M. R.
Published: January 2023

Tamil Nadu, one of the important agrarian states in India, has experienced remarkable growth in the agricultural sector. Among the seven agro-climatic zones of Tamil Nadu, north western zone is known for intensive agrarian economy of which, the economy of Salem district is predominantly agrarian having 2.20 lakh hectares of net cultivated area (42.31 percent of total geographical area). The district has distinctive cropping patterns and the major crops grown in the district include Paddy, Tapioca, Maize, Sorghum and Vegetables. Given the importance of changing scenarios in cropping patterns, this study was undertaken to analyze the land use and cropping pattern changes and to examine the extent of crop diversification in Salem District over the year using the time series data for 20 years, i.e., from 2000-01 to 2019-20. Direction of changes in land use and cropping pattern was investigated using Markov chain analysis and for each year, crop diversification index was calculated. It was concluded from the study that the compound annual growth rate of area under crops like cereals and millets, pulses, spices and condiments, fruits, fibres. drugs, narcotics & plantation crops and other non-food crops were positive whereas it was negative for sugar crops, oilseeds, vegetables, fodder and green manure. Based on the crop diversification index value, it is evident that Salem district is moving towards crop diversification rather than specialization however the process as analysed on a time series basis is stagnant.
Determinants of the Use of Personal Protective Equipment: A Literature Review
Authors: James Michelle K. , Ogle-Mustafa Chauncey A. , Chichester Melody A.
Published: January 2023

Workers are exposed to many types of hazards daily, depending on their work type. Therefore, employers should ensure that their employees are trained on their workplace hazards, identify the threat, and provide them with the tools to prevent and control their exposure to risks. This study aims to identify the determinants of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use.

Methodology: A systematic search was performed using various Electronic databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, Peer review Journal, Research gate, and others.  We included original studies that evaluated the effect of several determinants on PPE use. In addition, free full-text studies published in English from 2010 – to 2020 were also included. A total of fourteen studies met all the criteria and were selected to be included in this review.

Results: Findings revealed that workers across the board in various disciplines are often without PPE gear for multiple reasons. These include discomfort, unavailability at work, to affordability. Other factors include a lack of knowledge of the use, importance, and lack of company policy enforcement.

Conclusion: The main determinants found to affect PPE use in organizations can be organized into three categories: Individual factors, such as knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, and socio-demographics; Environmental factors, such as equipment availability; and Organizational factors, such as management’s expectations, and workplace policies.
Regulatory Policies and Community Broadcasting in Nigeria
Authors: Uchegbuo Tunde , Azubuike Chieme
Published: January 2023

The broadcast media landscape in Nigeria changed in 1992 following the approval of private individuals and organisations to own and operate private radio and television stations. In Rivers State, there are sixteen private commercial stations, in addition to two state-owned stations and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN). Sadly, there is no single community-based radio station in the state, and the story is the same in most states in Nigeria, despite the important role such a media platform plays. Expectedly, the commercial radio stations focus mostly on issues of regional and national interest, leaving the rural populace unrepresented and their issues underreported. Against this backdrop, this discourse investigated whether the deregulation of the electronic media in Nigeria does not cover community broadcasting. The survey research method was used. The population consists of 649,600 residents in Obio/Akpor LGA in Rivers State, Nigeria, and the Australian online sample size calculator was used to derive 278. A systematic sampling technique was employed in the study. Questionnaire served as the instrument for data collection, and the data was analysed using simple percentages. The findings revealed that the development of community radio is being stifled by discriminatory and exorbitant licence fees charged by the federal government of Nigeria. In the light of this, this discourse recommends a far-reaching reduction of the licence fee for community broadcasting, as well as the end of licence renewal as currently practised in the country, to enable rural dwellers to actively participate in deciding issues that concern them.
Photomodulated Extrusion as a Localized Endovascular Hydrogel Deposition Method
Authors: Dobashi Yuta , Ku Jerry C. , Ramjist Joel , Pasarikovski Christopher , Walus Konrad , Madden John D. W. , Yang Victor X. D.
Published: January 2023

Minimally invasive endovascular embolization is used to treat a wide range of diseases in neurology, oncology, and trauma where the vascular morphologies and corresponding hemodynamics vary greatly. Current techniques based on metallic coils, flow diverters, liquid embolics, and suspended microspheres are limited in their ability to address a wide variety of vasculature and can be plagued by complications including distal migration, compaction, and inappropriate vascular remodeling. Further, these endovascular devices currently offer limited therapeutic functions beyond flow control such as drug delivery. Herein, a novel in situ microcatheter‐based photomodulated extrusion approach capable of dynamically tuning the physical and morphological properties of injectable hydrogels, optimizing for local hemodynamic environment and vascular morphology, is proposed and demonstrated. A shear thinning and photoactivated poly(ethylene glycol diacrylate)‐nanosilicate (PEGDA‐nSi) hydrogel is used to demonstrate multiple extrusion modes which are controlled by photokinetics and device configurations. Real‐time photomodulation of injected hydrogel viscosity and modulus is successfully used for embolization in various vasculatures, including high‐flow large vessels and arterial‐to‐arterial capillary shunts. Furthermore, a generalizable therapeutic delivery platform is proposed by demonstrating a core–shell structured extrusion encapsulating doxorubicin to achieve a more sustained release compared to unencapsulated payload.
Amyloid Fibrils Enhance the Topical Bio‐Adhesivity of Liquid Crystalline Mesophase‐Based Drug Formulations
Authors: Victorelli Francesca Damiani , Rodero Camila Fernanda , Lutz‐Bueno Viviane , Chorilli Marlus , Mezzenga Raffaele
Published: January 2023

Despite their distinctive secondary structure based on cross β‐strands, amyloid fibrils (AF) are stable fibrous protein aggregates with features similar to collagen, one of the main components of the extracellular matrix, and thus constitute a potential scaffold for enhancing cell adhesion for topical applications. Here, the contribution of AF to skin bio‐adhesivity aiming toward topical treatments is investigated. Liquid crystalline mesophase (LCM) based on phytantriol is formulated, with the aqueous phase containing either water or a solution of 4 wt% amyloid fibrils. Then resveratrol is added as a model anti‐inflammatory molecule. The developed LCM presents a double gyroid Ia3d mesophase. The incorporation of AF into the LCM increases its bio‐adhesive properties. In vitro release and ex vivo permeation and retention confirm the controlled release property of the system, and that resveratrol is retained in epidermis and dermis, but is also permeated through the skin. All formulations are biocompatible with L929 cells. The in vivo assay confirms that systems with AF lead to a higher anti‐inflammatory effect of resveratrol. These results confirm the hypothesis that the incorporation of AF in the LCM increases the bio‐adhesiveness and efficiency of the system for topical treatment, and consequently, the therapeutical action of the encapsulated drug.
Combined Vacuum Evaporation and Solution Process for High‐Efficiency Large‐Area Perovskite Solar Cells with Exceptional Reproducibility
Authors: Tan Liguo , Zhou Junjie , Zhao Xing , Wang Siyang , Li Minghao , Jiang Chaofan , Li Hang , Zhang Yu , Ye Yiran , Tress Wolfgang , Ding Liming , Grätzel Michael , Yi Chenyi
Published: January 2023

Organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites exhibit outstanding performances in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the complex solution chemistry of perovskites precursors renders it difficult to prepare large‐area devices in a reproducible way, which is a prerequisite for the technology to make an impact beyond lab scale. Vacuum processing, instead, is an established technology for large‐scale coating of thin films. However, with respect to the hybrid perovskites it is highly challenging due to the high vapor pressure of the organic ammonium halide. In this work, vacuum evaporation of lead iodide and solution processing of organic ammonium halide is combined to produce large‐area homogeneous perovskite films with large grains in a highly reproducible way. The resulting PSCs achieve a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 24.3% (certified 23.9%) on small area (0.10 cm2), 24.0% (certified 23.7%) on large area (1 cm2) and 20.0% for minimodule (16 cm2), and maintain 90% of its initial efficiency after 1000 h 1‐sun operation. The vacuum evaporation prevents advert environmental effects on lead halide formation and guarantees a reproducible fabrication of high‐quality large‐area perovskite films, which opens a promising way for large‐scale fabrication of perovskite optoelectronics.
Reshaping the Endogenous Electric Field to Boost Wound Repair via Electrogenerative Dressing
Authors: Luo Ruizeng , Liang Yi , Yang Jinrui , Feng Hongqing , Chen Ying , Jiang Xupin , Zhang Ze , Liu Jie , Bai Yuan , Xue Jiangtao , Chao Shengyu , Xi Yi , Liu Xiaoqiang , Wang Engui , Luo Dan , Li Zhou , Zhang Jiaping
Published: January 2023

The endogenous electric field (EF) generated by transepithelial potential difference plays a decisive role in wound reepithelialization. For patients with large or chronic wounds, negative‐pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is the most effective clinical method in inflammation control by continuously removing the necrotic tissues or infected substances, thus creating a proproliferative microenvironment beneficial for wound reepithelialization. However, continuous negative‐pressure drainage causes electrolyte loss and weakens the endogenous EF, which in turn hinders wound reepithelialization. Here, an electrogenerative dressing (EGD) is developed by integrating triboelectric nanogenerators with NPWT. By converting the negative‐pressure‐induced mechanical deformation into electricity, EGD produces a stable and high‐safety EF that can trigger a robust epithelial electrotactic response and drive the macrophages toward a reparative M2 phenotype in vitro. Translational medicine studies confirm that EGD completely reshapes the wound EF weakened by NPWT, and promotes wound closure by facilitating an earlier transition of inflammation/proliferation and guiding epithelial migration and proliferation to accelerate reepithelialization. Long‐term EGD therapy remarkably advances tissue remodeling with mature epithelium, orderly extracellular matrix, and less scar formation. Compared with the golden standard of NPWT, EGD orchestrates all the essential wound stages in a noninvasive manner, presenting an excellent prospect in clinical wound therapy.
Rapid Data‐Efficient Optimization of Perovskite Nanocrystal Syntheses through Machine Learning Algorithm Fusion
Authors: Lampe Carola , Kouroudis Ioannis , Harth Milan , Martin Stefan , Gagliardi Alessio , Urban Alexander S.
Published: January 2023

With the demand for renewable energy and efficient devices rapidly increasing, a need arises to find and optimize novel (nano)materials. With sheer limitless possibilities for material combinations and synthetic procedures, obtaining novel, highly functional materials has been a tedious trial and error process. Recently, machine learning has emerged as a powerful tool to help optimize syntheses; however, most approaches require a substantial amount of input data, limiting their pertinence. Here, three well‐known machine‐learning models are merged with Bayesian optimization into one to optimize the synthesis of CsPbBr3 nanoplatelets with limited data demand. The algorithm can accurately predict the photoluminescence emission maxima of nanoplatelet dispersions using only the three precursor ratios as input parameters. This allows us to fabricate previously unobtainable seven and eight monolayer‐thick nanoplatelets. Moreover, the algorithm dramatically improves the homogeneity of 2–6‐monolayer‐thick nanoplatelet dispersions, as evidenced by narrower and more symmetric photoluminescence spectra. Decisively, only 200 total syntheses are required to achieve this vast improvement, highlighting how rapidly material properties can be optimized. The algorithm is highly versatile and can incorporate additional synthetic parameters. Accordingly, it is readily applicable to other less‐explored nanocrystal syntheses and can help rapidly identify and improve exciting compositions’ quality.
Regenerative Living 4D Printing via Reversible Growth of Polymer Networks
Authors: Xu Xiaona , Fang Zizheng , Jin Binjie , Mu Hongfeng , Shi Yunpeng , Xu Yang , Chen Guancong , Zhao Qian , Zheng Ning , Xie Tao
Published: January 2023

Living creatures possess complex geometries, exceptional adaptability, and continuous growing and regenerating characteristics, which are difficult for synthetic materials to imitate simultaneously. A living polymer network with these features is reported. The polymer can be digitally printed into arbitrary 3D shapes and subsequently undergoes growth via living polymerization of a monomer as the nutrient. This leads to macroscopic dimensional growth and transforms the printed amorphous network into a crystallizable network, resulting in geometric adaptability via a shape‐memory mechanism. By controlling the localized growth, an initial homogeneous structure can be converted into a geometrically different heterogeneous structure composed of materials with different properties (crystallization and mechanical properties). After growth, the original network can be chemically regenerated for regrowth. With this regenerative living 4D printing, one 3D‐printed seed template can be turned into different derivatives with distinct geometries and mechanical properties when repeated regeneration is conducted in different localized regions and the degree of regrowth is varied.
Comparative study of algal community in African sharptooth catfish (Clarias gariepinus, Burchell 1822) and Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus, Linnaeus 1758) farming ponds
Authors: Santi Saïdou , Poda Benjamin , Zongo Bilassé , Toguyeni Aboubacar
Published: January 2023

In subsistence and small‐scale fish farming, algae are an important food source for fish. Therefore, understanding their distribution and diversity in fish ponds is essential. This study aimed at characterising algae species in African sharptooth catfish (Clarias gariepinus) and Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) farming ponds and their contribution to these species’ diet. Water samples were collected from different points of the farming pond: in rearing pond, evacuation canal of each species and decantation pond. Samples were also collected from fish stomachs and intestines. Afterwards, they were analysed with a photonic microscope for species identification using standard identification keys. The highest species richness (S) and Shannon index (H) were observed in fish rearing ponds (S = 73, H = 2.98–3.84) and the lowest in fish stomachs and intestines (S = 41, H = 1.88‐3.07). Jaccard's similarity index, ranging from 0.17 to 0.55, shows a high specific diversity of alga in the different sampling points. During the experimental period, water physicochemical parameters were within the optimum growth for algae and fish species. Since some algae species recorded are consumed by both fish species, this study recommends to select and cultivate them for fish food production.
Robustness of CSF Aβ42/40 and Aβ42/P‐tau181 measured using fully automated immunoassays to detect AD‐related outcomes
Authors: Leuzy Antoine , Mattsson‐Carlgren Niklas , Cullen Nicholas C. , Stomrud Erik , Palmqvist Sebastian , La Joie Renaud , Iaccarino Leonardo , Zetterberg Henrik , Rabinovici Gil , Blennow Kaj , Janelidze Shorena , Hansson Oskar
Published: January 2023

Introduction

This study investigated the comparability of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cutoffs for Elecsys immunoassays for amyloid beta (Aβ)42/Aβ40 or Aβ42/phosphorylated tau (p‐tau)181 and the effects of measurement variability when predicting Alzheimer's disease (AD)‐related outcomes (i.e., Aβ‐positron emission tomography [PET] visual read and AD neuropathology).

Methods

We studied 750 participants (BioFINDER study, Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative [ADNI], and University of California San Francisco [UCSF]). Youden's index was used to identify cutoffs and to calculate accuracy (Aβ‐PET visual read as outcome). Using longitudinal variability in Aβ‐negative controls, we identified a gray zone around cut‐points where the risk of an inconsistent predicted outcome was >5%.

Results

For Aβ42/Aβ40, cutoffs across cohorts were <0.059 (BioFINDER), <0.057 (ADNI), and <0.058 (UCSF). For Aβ42/p‐tau181, cutoffs were <41.90 (BioFINDER), <39.20 (ADNI), and <46.02 (UCSF). Accuracy was ≈90% for both Aβ42/Aβ40 and Aβ42/p‐tau181 using these cutoffs. Using Aβ‐PET as an outcome, 8.7% of participants fell within a gray zone interval for Aβ42/Aβ40, compared to 4.5% for Aβ42/p‐tau181. Similar findings were observed using a measure of overall AD neuropathologic change (7.7% vs. 3.3%). In a subset with CSF and plasma Aβ42/40, the number of individuals within the gray zone was ≈1.5 to 3 times greater when using plasma Aβ42/40.

Discussion

CSF Aβ42/p‐tau181 was more robust to the effects of measurement variability, suggesting that it may be the preferred Elecsys‐based measure in clinical practice and trials.
Prediction of neuropathologic lesions from clinical data
Authors: Phongpreecha Thanaphong , Cholerton Brenna , Bukhari Syed , Chang Alan L. , De Francesco Davide , Thuraiappah Melan , Godrich Dana , Perna Amalia , Becker Martin G. , Ravindra Neal G. , Espinosa Camilo , Kim Yeasul , Berson Eloise , Mataraso Samson , Sha Sharon J. , Fox Edward J. , Montine Kathleen S. , Baker Laura D. , Craft Suzanne , White Lon , Poston Kathleen L. , Beecham Gary , Aghaeepour Nima , Montine Thomas J.
Published: January 2023

INTRODUCTION

Post‐mortem analysis provides definitive diagnoses of neurodegenerative diseases; however, only a few can be diagnosed during life.

METHODS

This study employed statistical tools and machine learning to predict 17 neuropathologic lesions from a cohort of 6518 individuals using 381 clinical features (Table S1). The multisite data allowed validation of the model's robustness by splitting train/test sets by clinical sites. A similar study was performed for predicting Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathologic change without specific comorbidities.

RESULTS

Prediction results show high performance for certain lesions that match or exceed that of research annotation. Neurodegenerative comorbidities in addition to AD neuropathologic change resulted in compounded, but disproportionate, effects across cognitive domains as the comorbidity number increased.

DISCUSSION

Certain clinical features could be strongly associated with multiple neurodegenerative diseases, others were lesion‐specific, and some were divergent between lesions. Our approach could benefit clinical research, and genetic and biomarker research by enriching cohorts for desired lesions.
Selective Removal of Sulfate from Water by Precipitation with a Rigid Bis‐amidinium Compound
Authors: Tzioumis Nikki A. , Cullen Duncan A. , Jolliffe Katrina A. , White Nicholas G.
Published: January 2023

A simple, readily prepared biphenyl bis‐amidinium compound (1⋅Cl2) is able to selectively precipitate sulfate from water. The precipitant is effective at concentrations as low as 1 mM and shows complete selectivity against monovalent anions, and high selectivity even against CO32− and HPO42−. It is highly effective (>90 % sulfate removed) in both seawater and highly acidic conditions relevant to mining waste‐streams. X‐ray crystallography reveals that 1⋅SO4 forms a tightly packed, anhydrous, structure where each sulfate anion receives eight hydrogen bonds from amidinium N−H hydrogen bond donors.
Cinchonine‐induced cell death in pancreatic cancer cells by downregulating RRP15
Authors: Liang Feng , Lv Ying , Qiao Xiao , Zhang Shu , Shen Shanshan , Wang Changcheng , Xu Guifang , Zou Xiaoping , Wang Lei , Zhang Bin
Published: January 2023

Pancreatic cancer is characterized by poor prognosis and high mortality, while its treatment remains unsatisfactory. Cinchonine, a natural compound present in cinchona bark, is a potential anticancer drug. Whether cinchonine is of relevance to pancreatic cancer therapeutics is unclear. This research showed that the ribosomal RNA‐processing 15 homolog (RRP15) expression is decreased in the pancreatic cancer, and RRP15 knockdown inhibited autophagy, and caused apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells. Cinchonine treatment inhibits the expression of RRP15 and autophagy, and caused apoptosis by leading to the activation of Nrf2 axis in pancreatic cancer cells. Taken together, the above results indicate that cinchonine treatment inhibited autophagy and induced apoptosis through activating Nrf2 axis by downregulating RRP15 in pancreatic cancer cells.
Percutaneous coronary intervention with drug‐coated balloon‐only strategy combined with single antiplatelet treatment in patients at high bleeding risk: Single center experience of a novel concept
Authors: Räsänen Alma , Kärkkäinen Jussi M. , Eranti Antti , Eränen Jaakko , Rissanen Tuomas T.
Published: January 2023

Objectives

At least 1 month of dual antiplatelet therapy is required after coronary stenting. The aim of this all‐comers retrospective registry study was to assess the efficacy and safety of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using drug‐coated balloon (DCB) with single antiplatelet treatment (SAPT).

Methods

Between 2011 and 2020, 232 PCIs were performed in 172 patients using the DCB‐only strategy and discharged with SAPT.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 75 ± 11 years and 59% were male. The clinical presentation was stable coronary artery disease (CAD) in 42% of the patients and acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in 58%. The lesions were mainly de novo (96%). The majority (58%) of treated lesions were in large coronary arteries (≥3.0 mm). Most (87%) of the patients were at high bleeding risk (HBR) with at least one major or two minor Academic Research Consortium (ARC) risk factors for bleeding. Periprocedural DAPT was used in 49% of the patients. The 12‐month major adverse cardiac events (MACE, the composition of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and target‐lesion revascularization) rate was 1.4% in stable CAD and 7.1% in ACS. The 12‐month all‐cause mortality after DBC only + SAPT strategy was 4.1% in stable CAD and 12.1% in ACS. The rate of ischemia‐driven target lesion revascularisation (TLR) was 0% in stable CAD and 3.0% in ACS at 12 months. The 12‐month rate of significant bleeding (BARC type 2‐5) was 10.5%. There were no acute or subacute vessel closures.

Conclusions

Despite the aged patient population with comorbidities, the TLR, MACE, and bleeding rates were low with DCB‐only PCI combined with SAPT. This novel approach could reduce the post‐PCI bleeding risk in patients with CAD and HBR compared to stenting.
Validation of the new PROGRESS‐CTO complication risk scores in the OPEN‐CTO registry
Authors: Azzalini Lorenzo , Hirai Taishi , Salisbury Adam , Gosch Kensey , Sapontis James , Nicholson William J. , Karmpaliotis Dimitri , Moses Jeffrey W. , Kearney Kathleen E. , Lombardi William L. , Grantham James Aaron
Published: January 2023

Background

Risk stratification before chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is important to inform procedural planning as well as patients and their families. We sought to externally validate the PROGRESS‐CTO complication risk scores in the OPEN‐CTO registry.

Methods

OPEN‐CTO is a prospective registry of 1000 consecutive CTO PCIs performed at 12 experienced US centers using the hybrid algorithm. Endpoints of interest were in‐hospital all‐cause mortality, need for pericardiocentesis, acute myocardial infarction (MI), and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (a composite of all‐cause mortality, stroke, periprocedural MI, urgent repeat revascularization, and tamponade requiring pericardiocentesis). Model discrimination was assessed with the area under the curve (AUC) method, and calibration with the observed‐versus‐predicted probability method.

Results

Mean age was 65.4 ± 10.3 year, and 36.5% of patients had prior coronary artery bypass graft. Overall, 41 patients (4.1%) suffered MACE, 9 (0.9%) mortality, 26 (2.6%) acute MI, and 11 (1.1%) required pericardiocentesis. Technical success was achieved in 86.3%. Patients who experienced MACE had higher anatomic complexity, and more often required antegrade dissection/reentry and the retrograde approach. Increasing PROGRESS‐CTO MACE scores were associated with increasing MACE rates: 0.5% (score 0−1), 2.4% (score 2), 3.7% (score 3), 4.5% (score 4), 7.8% (score 5), 13.0% (score 6−7). The AUC were as follows: MACE 0.72 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.66−0.78), mortality 0.79 (95% CI: 0.66−0.95), pericardiocentesis 0.71 (95% CI: 0.60−0.82), and acute MI 0.57 (95% CI: 0.49−0.66). Calibration was adequate for MACE and mortality, while the models underestimated the risk of pericardiocentesis and acute MI.

Conclusions

In a large external cohort of patients treated with the hybrid algorithm by experienced CTO operators, the PROGRESS‐CTO MACE, mortality, and pericardiocentesis risk scores showed good discrimination, while the acute MI score had inferior performance.
Role of the retrograde Carlino technique for chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Azzalini Lorenzo , Boudou Nicolas , Avran Alexandre , Kane Jesse , Lombardi William L. , Kearney Kathleen E. , Carlino Mauro
Published: January 2023

Background

There is scarce data on the outcomes of the Carlino technique for chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We aimed to investigate the indications and outcomes of the Carlino technique as performed in the context of the retrograde approach.

Methods

We pooled CTO PCI cases where a retrograde Carlino technique was performed from high‐volume operators at four centers. The Carlino technique was characterized according to its indication (achieving plaque/cap modification, clarifying microcatheter location within the vessel, resolving distal cap ambiguity) and was considered successful when it led to the desired outcome.

Results

A total of 43 patients were included. Occlusion complexity was very high (mean J‐CTO score 3.3 ± 0.8). The two most common indications were understanding the anatomy of the occlusion and clarifying gear location (37.2%) and impenetrable distal cap (34.9%). The Carlino technique was successful in 88.4% of cases. Overall technical and procedural success was 86.0%. The most common successful crossing technique was reverse controlled antegrade and retrograde subintimal tracking (70.3%). No complications were attributed to the Carlino technique.

Conclusions

We observed a high success rate of the retrograde Carlino technique, as well as overall technical and procedural success rates. No Carlino technique‐related complications were observed. Additional data from larger registries are warranted to further confirm the safety and efficacy of this technique.
ABCB1 Gene Variants and Antidepressant Treatment Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis Including Results from the CAN‐BIND‐1 Study
Authors: Magarbeh Leen , Hassel Claudia , Choi Maximilian , Islam Farhana , Marshe Victoria S. , Zai Clement C. , Zuberi Rayyan , Gammal Roseann S. , Men Xiaoyu , Scherf‐Clavel Maike , Enko Dietmar , Frey Benicio N. , Milev Roumen , Soares Claudio N. , Parikh Sagar V. , Placenza Franca , Strother Stephen C. , Hassel Stefanie , Taylor Valerie H. , Leri Francesco , Blier Pierre , Farzan Faranak , Lam Raymond W. , Turecki Gustavo , Foster Jane A. , Rotzinger Susan , Kloiber Stefan , Kennedy James L. , Kennedy Sidney H. , Bousman Chad A. , Müller Daniel J.
Published: January 2023

The P‐glycoprotein efflux pump, encoded by the ABCB1 gene, has been shown to alter concentrations of various antidepressants in the brain. In this study, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to investigate the association between six ABCB1 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; rs1045642, rs2032582, rs1128503, rs2032583, rs2235015, and rs2235040) and antidepressant treatment outcomes in individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD), including new data from the Canadian Biomarker and Integration Network for Depression (CAN‐BIND‐1) cohort. For the CAN‐BIND‐1 sample, we applied regression models to investigate the association between ABCB1 SNPs and antidepressant treatment response, remission, tolerability, and antidepressant serum levels. For the meta‐analysis, we systematically summarized pharmacogenetic evidence of the association between ABCB1 SNPs and antidepressant treatment outcomes. Studies were included in the meta‐analysis if they investigated at least one ABCB1 SNP in individuals with MDD treated with at least one antidepressant. We did not find a significant association between ABCB1 SNPs and antidepressant treatment outcomes in the CAN‐BIND‐1 sample. A total of 39 studies were included in the systematic review. In the meta‐analysis, we observed a significant association between rs1128503 and treatment response (T vs. C‐allele, odds ratio = 1.30, 95% confidence interval = 1.15–1.48, P value (adjusted) = 0.024, n = 2,526). We did not find associations among the six SNPs and treatment remission nor tolerability. Our findings provide limited evidence for an association between common ABCB1 SNPs and antidepressant outcomes, which do not support the implementation of ABCB1 genotyping to inform antidepressant treatment at this time. Future research, especially on rs1128503, is recommended.
Environmental DNA of Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba): Measuring DNA fragmentation adds a temporal aspect to quantitative surveys
Authors: Suter Leonie , Wotherspoon Simon , Kawaguchi So , King Rob , MacDonald Anna J. , Nester Georgia M. , Polanowski Andrea M. , Raymond Ben , Deagle Bruce E.
Published: January 2023

Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) is a keystone species in the Southern Ocean ecosystem, and monitoring its distribution and abundance is crucial for the sustainable management of expanding fisheries targeting the species. Environmental DNA (eDNA)‐based monitoring could complement conventional krill surveys, but its applicability is limited by a lack of knowledge on eDNA persistence and decay in the Southern Ocean. We aimed to develop a method that can not only quantify Antarctic krill eDNA, but also estimate a relative time since this eDNA was shed (“recent” vs “older”). Three species‐specific qPCR markers targeting the mitochondrial 16S region were developed, and the eDNA decay characteristics of these markers were determined through tank experiments. Krill eDNA was partially degraded in all samples, even when krill were present. Marker concentrations decreased exponentially at similar rates after krill removal, with initial relative abundances maintained across the three markers. Over time, the concentration of the longest marker decreased faster, changing the relative abundances of the markers, and allowing discrimination of more recent samples from more degraded older samples. We employed this new method to quantify Antarctic krill eDNA collected across a 4800 km Southern Ocean transect, and estimated the age of the eDNA in these samples based on the relative abundance of markers, adding a temporal aspect to a quantitative eDNA survey. We also compared a Euphausiid‐specific metabarcoding marker to the qPCR method to assess sensitivity in detecting Antarctic krill eDNA. While these new eDNA methods should be evaluated against existing non‐molecular survey methods, they could add an important novel, dynamic layer of information to future krill surveys. Our method could not only determine where Antarctic krill eDNA is present but shed light on how they may be using certain habitats, expanding our understanding of this important species’ life cycle and contributing to more accurate abundance and distribution estimates.
p‐d Orbital Hybridization Engineered Single‐Atom Catalyst for Electrocatalytic Ammonia Synthesis
Authors: Yu Jingkun , Yong Xue , Lu Siyu
Published: January 2023

The rational design of metal single‐atom catalysts (SACs) for electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is challenging. Two‐dimensional metal–organic frameworks (2DMOFs) is a unique class of promising SACs. Up to now, the roles of individual metals, coordination atoms, and their synergy effect on the electroanalytic performance remain unclear. Therefore, in this work, a series of 2DMOFs with different metals and coordinating atoms are systematically investigated as electrocatalysts for ammonia synthesis using density functional theory calculations. For a specific metal, a proper metal‐intermediate atoms p‐d orbital hybridization interaction strength is found to be a key indicator for their NRR catalytic activities. The hybridization interaction strength can be quantitatively described with the p−/d‐ band center energy difference (∆d‐p), which is found to be a sufficient descriptor for both the p‐d hybridization strength and the NRR performance. The maximum free energy change (ΔGmax) and ∆d‐p have a volcanic relationship with OsC4(Se)4 located at the apex of the volcanic curve, showing the best NRR performance. The asymmetrical coordination environment could regulate the band structure subtly in terms of band overlap and positions. This work may shed new light on the application of orbital engineering in electrocatalytic NRR activity and especially promotes the rational design for SACs.
Bacillus Calmette–Guérin–induced interleukin‐10 inhibits S100A8/A9 production and hinders development of T helper type 1 memory in mice
Authors: Wang Yaping , Sun Yuehua , Zheng Yong , Yang Yuling , He Liu , Qu Peijie , Zhou Fangting , Xu XiaoXu , Bai Xuanchang , Chen Xin , Yuan Yangxuan , Liu Min , Pan Qin
Published: January 2023

Tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) is one of the main causes of human death in the world. Bacillus Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) provides limited protection in adolescents and adults. To explore the factors reducing efficacy of BCG vaccine, we assess the impacts of interleukin (IL)‐10 and alarmins S100A8/A9 on T‐cell memory. We found that BCG‐induced IL‐10 inhibited production of S100A8/A9 in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and murine splenocytes. S100A9 deficiency inhibited IFN‐γ production by CD4+ T cells in the early phase of BCG immunization and hindered the development of effector memory T helper type 1 (Th1) cells, while IL‐10 deficiency promoted Th1 memory and blocking IL‐10 signaling enhanced Th1 protective recall response against M.tb. IL‐10 inhibited the binding of transcription factor CCAAT enhancer binding protein beta to S100a8/a9 promoter leading to S100A8/A9 reduction. S100A8/A9 heterodimer enhanced the IFN‐γ production via receptor for advanced glycation end products signaling in CD4+ T cells. Our results demonstrate a hurdle to development of Th1 memory after BCG immunization and clarify the mechanism of the regulation of Th1 memory by IL‐10 and S100A8/A9.