bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and associated risk factors of avian influenza A virus subtypes H5N1 and H9N2 in LBMs of East Java province, Indonesia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Rehman Saifur , Effendi Mustofa Helmi , Shehzad Aamir , Rahman Attaur , Rahmahani Jola , Witaningrum Adiana Mutamsari , Bilal Muhammad
Published: October 2022

Background

Avian influenza A virus subtypes H5N1 and H9N2 are contagious zoonotic diseases that are circulating in Indonesia and have raised increasing concern about their potential impacts on poultry and public health. A cross-sectional study was carried out to investigate the prevalence and associated risk factors of avian influenza A virus subtypes H5N1 and H9N2 among poultry in the live bird markets of four cities in East Java province, Indonesia.

Methods

A total of 600 tracheal and cloacal swabs (267 from backyards, 179 from broilers, and 154 from layers) from healthy birds were collected. The samples were inoculated into specific pathogenic-free embryonated eggs at 9-day-old via the allantoic cavity. qRT-PCR was used for further identification of avian influenza.

Results

The overall prevalence of circulating influenza A virus subtypes H5N1 and H9N2 was 3.8% (23/600, 95%CI [0.0229–0.0537]). Prevalence was higher in backyards at 5.99% (16/267) followed by broilers (2.23% (4/179)) and layers (1.68% (3/154)). The final multivariable model revealed five risk factors for H9N2 infections: presence of ducks (p = 0.003, OR = 38.2), turkeys (p = 0.017 OR = 0.032), and pheasants in the stall (p = 0.04, OR = 18.422), dry (p = 0.006) and rainy season (p < 0.001), and household birds (p = 0.002) and seven factors for H5N1 infections including: observing rodents (p = 0.036, OR = 0.005), stray dogs access (p = 0.004 OR ≤ 0.001), presence of turkeys (p = 0.03 OR = 0.007), chukars/partridges (p = 0.024 OR = 2500), and peafowls in the stalls (p = 0.0043 OR ≤ 0.001), rainy season (p = 0.001) and birds from the household sources (p = 0.002) in the live bird markets.

Conclusions

The findings of the current study illustrate the recurring infection and presence of both avian influenza viruses and associated risk factors in the surveyed marketplaces. Effective protective measures and mitigation strategies for risks outlined in this study could help to reduce the burden of H5N1 and H9N2 AI subtypes into the live bird markets of Indonesia.
Glycyrrhizic acid Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles: anti-aging cosmeceutical formulation for topical applications
Authors: Cetin Aluc Cigdem , Gok Bahar , Kecel-Gunduz Serda , Budama-Kilinc Yasemin
Published: October 2022

Glycyrrhizic acid (GA) is one of the components of licorice roots (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.). GA is a triterpenoid saponin can be used as a medicinal plant with its antiallergic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, hepatoprotective, anticancer, anti-oxidation activities and several other therapeutic properties. The aim of this study is to develop an anti-aging formulation for topical application containing GA. In this context, GA-loaded Poly (D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared using the double emulsion method, and were characterized by various spectroscopic methods. The efficacy of GA-PLGA NPs was evaluated with in vitro and in silico methods. The encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity were calculated. The in vitro release study was conducted, and the GA release profile was determined. The genotoxic activity of GA and GA-PLGA NPs was evaluated by the Ames test using TA98 and TA100 mutant strains of Salmonella typhimurium. The cytotoxic potential of GA-PLGA NPs was evaluated on the HaCaT cell line using the MTT assay. According to the genotoxicity and cytotoxicity results, it was found that the GA-PLGA NP formulation did not exhibit genotoxic and cytotoxic effects. Moreover, the efficacy of GA in preventing UVB-induced photo-aging in HaCaT cells and the clarification of the molecular mechanism of GA binding to MMPs were revealed by molecular docking analysis. In addition, through molecular dynamics (MD) analysis, the binding interaction of GA with MMPs in a dynamic system, and protein-ligand stability were predicted as a result of 50 ns MD simulation studies considering various analysis parameters. Finally, it was evaluated that GA-PLGA nanoformulation might be used as an alternative anti-aging skin care product candidate via topical application.
Body distribution of impetigo and association with host and pathogen factors
Authors: Yerramilli Arvind , Bowen Asha C. , Marcato Adrian J. , McVernon Jodie , Carapetis Jonathan R. , Campbell Patricia T. , Tong Steven YC
Published: October 2022

Background

Impetigo or skin sores are estimated to affect >162 million people worldwide. Detailed descriptions of the anatomical location of skin sores are lacking.

Methods

We used prospectively collected data from a randomised control trial of treatments for impetigo in Aboriginal children in Australia. We generated heat-map distributions of skin sores on the human body from 56 predefined anatomical locations and stratified skin sore distribution by sex, age, causative pathogen and co-infection with scabies, tinea and head lice. We compared the distribution of sores between males and females, between sores with only Streptococcus pyogenes and sores with only Staphylococcus aureus; and across age groups with a Fisher’s exact test.

Results

There were 663 episodes of impetigo infections among 508 children enrolled in the trial. For all 663 episodes, the lower limbs were the most affected body sites followed by the distal upper limbs, face and scalp. On the anterior surface of the body, the pre-tibial region was the most affected while on the posterior surface, the dorsum of the hands and calves predominated. There was no observable difference between males and females in distribution of sores. Children up to 3 years of age were more likely to have sores on the upper posterior lower limbs and scalp than older age groups, with the distribution of sores differing across age groups (p = 3 × 10−5). Sores from which only Staphylococcus aureus was cultured differed in distribution to those with only Streptococcus pyogenes cultured (p = 3 × 10−4) and were more commonly found on the upper posterior lower limbs.

Conclusions

Skin sores were predominantly found on exposed regions of the lower leg and distal upper limbs. The distribution of sores varied by age group and pathogen. These results highlight key areas of the body for clinicians to pay attention to when examining children for skin sores.
Enhancing yogurt products’ ingredients: preservation strategies, processing conditions, analytical detection methods, and therapeutic delivery—an overview
Authors: Mehra Rahul , Kumar Harish , Rafiq Shafiya , Kumar Naveen , Buttar Harpal Singh , Leicht Katarzyna , Okpala Charles Odilichukwu R. , Korzeniowska Małgorzata
Published: October 2022

As a dairy product, yogurt delivers nourishing milk components through the beneficial microbial fermentation process, improved by bioavailability and bioaccessibility–an exclusive combined food asset. In recent decades, there has been considerable attention to yogurt product development particularly in areas like influence by antioxidant-rich fruits, different factors affecting its probiotic viability, and the functionality of inulin and probiotics. Essentially, many published reviews frequently focus on the functionalities associated with yogurt products, however, those articulating yogurt ingredients specific to associated preservation strategies, processing conditions, and analytical detection techniques are very few, to the best of our knowledge. The knowledge and understanding of preservation strategies that enhance the ingredients in yogurt products, and their function as modern drug delivery systems are essential, given the opportunities it can provide for future research. Therefore, this overview discussed how yogurt product ingredients have been enhanced, from preservation strategies, processing conditions, analytical detection methods, and therapeutic delivery standpoints. The survey methodology involved major stages, from the brainstorming of research questions, search strategy, effective utilization of databases, inclusion and exclusion criteria, etc. The innovative successes of yogurts would be enhanced via the physicochemical, nutritional and therapeutic aspects of the ingredients/products. Besides processing conditions to influence the yogurt constituents, overall acceptability, quality, and shelf-life, the analytical assays would help detect the hidden product constituents, toxins, and other storage-related changes. The therapeutic role of yogurt-a modern drug delivery system, would be demonstrated via the supplementation (of yogurt) either alone or with bioactive ingredients. The future of yogurt requires the collective action of stakeholders to formulate unique variants with different natural blends, where synthetic ingredients become completely replaced by the plant’s derivatives, which enhance the acidification rate and extend shelf life.
When disturbances favour species adapted to stressful soils: grazing may benefit soil specialists in gypsum plant communities
Authors: Cera Andreu , Montserrat-Martí Gabriel , Luzuriaga Arantzazu L. , Pueyo Yolanda , Palacio Sara
Published: October 2022

Background

Herbivory and extreme soils are drivers of plant evolution. Adaptation to extreme soils often implies substrate-specific traits, and resistance to herbivory involves tolerance or avoidance mechanisms. However, little research has been done on the effect of grazing on plant communities rich in edaphic endemics growing on extreme soils. A widespread study case is gypsum drylands, where livestock grazing often prevails. Despite their limiting conditions, gypsum soils host a unique and highly specialised flora, identified as a conservation priority.

Methods

We evaluated the effect of different grazing intensities on the assembly of perennial plant communities growing on gypsum soils. We considered the contribution of species gypsum affinity and key functional traits of species such as traits related to gypsum specialisation (leaf S accumulation) or traits related to plant tolerance to herbivory such as leaf C and N concentrations. The effect of grazing intensity on plant community indices (i.e., richness, diversity, community weighted-means (CWM) and functional diversity (FD) indices for each trait) were modelled using Generalised Linear Mixed Models (GLMM). We analysed the relative contribution of interspecific trait variation and intraspecific trait variation (ITV) in shifts of community index values.

Results

Livestock grazing may benefit gypsum plant specialists during community assembly, as species with high gypsum affinity, and high leaf S contents, were more likely to assemble in the most grazed plots. Grazing also promoted species with traits related to herbivory tolerance, as species with a rapid-growth strategy (high leaf N, low leaf C) were promoted under high grazing conditions. Species that ultimately formed gypsum plant communities had sufficient functional variability among individuals to cope with different grazing intensities, as intraspecific variability was the main component of species assembly for CWM values.

Conclusions

The positive effects of grazing on plant communities in gypsum soils indicate that livestock may be a key tool for the conservation of these edaphic endemics.
Amicus Curiae Consideraciones sobre el caso Sandra Cecilia Pavez Pavez c. Chile a la luz de la jurisprudencia del Tribunal Europeo de Derechos Humanos sobre el estatus de los profesores de religión católica en centros de enseñanza públicos
Authors: Martínez-Torrón Javier , Valero Estarellas María José
Published: October 2022

El presente escrito amicus curiae en relación con el caso Sandra Cecilia Pavez Pavez c. Chile, pendiente de decisión ante la jurisdicción de la Corte Interamericana de Derechos Humanos (caso no 12.997), se presenta a iniciativa propia. Su finalidad es realizar un análisis crítico tanto de las circunstancias del caso como de algunas de las consideraciones de la Comisión Interamericana de Derechos Humanos en su Informe de Fondo 148/18, de 7 de diciembre de 2018, a la luz especialmente de la jurisprudencia del Tribunal Europeo de Derechos Humanos (en adelante TEDH), que ha juzgado en años recientes algunos casos relativos al estatus jurídico de los profesores de religión en centros de enseñanza públicos que presentan interesantes analogías con el de Sandra Cecilia Pavez.
Mosquito Genera in Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Kogi State, North Central Nigeria
Authors: Amana G. U. , Ozougwu J. C. , Idakwo J. K. , Imakwu C. A. , Okeke O. P. , Uzochukwu C. U. , John U. O. , Haruna J. T.
Published: October 2022

This study was focused on the determination of mosquito genera at Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Kogi State, North Central Nigeria. Mosquitoes were collected for four weeks (4) on a weekly basis indoors at dawn from the female hostel of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Kogi State, Nigeria. Samples were collected from three different blocks (A, B, and C) of the study area. The samples were identified clearly based on their visible morphological features up to genus levels using routine methods. The data obtained from the study was analyzed using an SPSS version 21.0 for windows. Analysis of variance was used to test for significant difference in the abundance of mosquitoes’ genera between weeks and blocks. The resulting outputs were presented in tables. The weekly mosquito genera and relative abundance in block A of the study area showed that the total mosquito genera recorded were Anopheles 72 (40%), Culex 73 (40.6%), and Aedes 35 (19.4%). Mosquitoes were most abundant in week 4 (31.1%) and least abundant in week 1 (18.9%) in block A of the study area, which were statistically significant at P < 0.05. The weekly mosquito genera and relative abundance in block B of the study area showed that the total mosquito genera recorded were Anopheles 71 (39.7%), Culex 73 (40.8%), and Aedes 35 (19.6%). Mosquitoes were most abundant in week 4 (30.2%) and least abundant in week 1 (21.2%) in block B of the study area (P < 0.05). The weekly mosquito genera and relative abundance in block C of the study area showed that the total mosquito genera recorded were Anopheles 47 (37.6%), Culex 45 (36%), and Aedes 33 (26.4%). Mosquitoes were most abundant in week 1 (25.6%) and least abundant in week 2 (21.6%) in block C of the study area (P < 0.05). The total number of Anopheles in the study area was 190 (40.9%), followed by Culex at 181 (39%) and Aedes at 93 (20%). The most abundant mosquito genera were Anopheles and the least were Aedes (P < 0.05). The number of Anopheles, Culex, and Aedes species observed in this study is of grave epidemiological apprehension for the university community. Consequently, public health education on mosquito control is urgently needed.
Detection and Quantification of Gastrointestinal Parasites among Inmates of Social Welfare Homes and Low Socio-economic Areas in Metropolitan Port Harcourt
Authors: Amudatu Adedokun Ambali , Barine Gboeloh Le Bari , Orevaeghene Onosakponome Evelyn , Adah Okafor Roseanne
Published: October 2022

Background: Detection and quantification of gastrointestinal parasitic infections (GIPIs) causing public health problems among poorer layers of the society are still one of the Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in developing countries.

Objective: The aim of the study was to detect gastrointestinal parasites among inmates of Social Welfare Homes and Low Socioeconomic Areas in Metropolitan Port Harcourt.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out for the evaluation of all the 1500 participants for GIPs among residents of social welfare homes and low socioeconomic areas in Rivers State, Nigeria for a period of one year (July 2019- June 2020). Stool samples were collected from each participant for isolation of GIPs in stool sample. Formol-ether concentration methods and Modified Ziehl-Neelson Staining techniques was used for the isolation and identification of gastrointestinal parasites. Descriptive and Chi square statistical analysis was applied.

Results: Out of 1500, 1,381 (92.1%) participants showed negative report, while 119(7.9%) participants were positive for GIPs. Females account for 839 (55.9%) while males were 661 (44.1%). Positivity in males accounted for 9.8% (65/661) and the females had 6.4% (54/839). Age group with high prevalence occurred among 11-15yrs (13.5%)/340. Both variables were statistically significant (p<0.05). Seasonal distribution of GIPs was high during the wet season (p<0.05). Overall, A. lumbricoides was the most predominant gastrointestinal parasites, accounting for 35.3% of the total identified. Others were as follows; T. Trichiura 26.1%, hookworm 21.9%, C. sinensis and S. mansoni 2.5%, tapeworm 1.7%, while H. nana and H. diminuta had 0.8% each. Co-infection of A. lumbricoides + hookworm and hookworm + T. Trichiura recorded 4.2% each. Protozoa species were not identified. Risk factor of the use of toilet papers was found to be statistically significant (p<0.05) among others.

Conclusion: We recommend that knowledge of epidemiology and transmission routes of C. sinensis and H. diminuta needs to be improved and effective health education on personal hygiene and mass treatment should be sustainable to control the spread of gastrointestinal parasites.
Performance of Different Varieties of Spinach Beet (Beta vulgaris var. bengalensis) under Prayagraj Agro-Climatic Condition
Authors: Toppo Astha , Topno Samir E. , Kerketta Anita
Published: October 2022

A field experiment was carried out at the Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh during the Rabi 2021-2022 with a view to determine the performance of different varieties of spinach beet (Beta vulgaris var. bengalensis) for its growth, yield under Prayagraj climate and to work out the economics of various treatments. Under this experiment, overall 7 varieties were sown under tags T1 (Pusa Jyoti), T2 (All Green), T3 (All Green H-1), T4 (Green Iron), T5 (Palak- Ashirwad), T6 (Sudevi Green Spinach), T7 (Supriya) which was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. From the present investigation, it was concluded that variety Pusa Jyoti performed best in respect of all parameters specially yield (64.44q/ha) at Prayagraj climatic condition. The benefit-Cost ratio (1.61) of variety Pusa Jyoti was found to be the highest therefore, it can be suggested to farmers to adapt it in cultivation practices.
Synergetic Approach for the Harbor Sediment Management: The Damietta Harbor (Egypt) Case Study
Authors: El-Masry Esraa Aziz , El-Sammak Amr Abd El-Aziz
Published: October 2022

Dredged material dumping is one of the most important locally generated problems to be considered in harbors’ management. The present work was carried out to assess the physical and particle size characteristics of the seabed and core sediments of the Damietta harbor basin and offshore area, with the main aim of proposing a synergetic approach to harbor sediment management. In addition tosuggestinga new offshore dumping site that will solve the problem of redispersing of the dumped sediment and re-shoaling of the harbor entrance. To achieve the study objectives, thirty-three sediment samples were collected from the harbor basin and the offshore area during the years 2007 and 2017, and the satellite image of the study area was obtained during the year 2022. Sediments were subjected to grain size analysis, total solids determination, estimation of carbonate and organic matter contents, and marine bottom communities’ analysis. Results show that the mean grain size of samples ranged between 4.75-7.99 Ø (silt). Carbonate content in samples ranged from 0.41 to 3.13% and the total organic matter in samples reached a value of 2.95%. These results would help in assessing sediments that will be dredged from this area to be dumped in the middle shelf off the Damietta promontory. Management measures proposed by the present study consider the harbor basin deepening, extension of the harbor basin and the beneficial use of the dredged sediment. Moreover, sediment bypassing supposed to mitigate scour problem and acting as a feeder to the adjacent shorelines and the littoral cell in the study area.
Extent of Adoption of Recommended Potato Production Technologies in Meghalaya
Authors: Kharumnuid Pynbianglang , Devarani L. , Singh R. J. , Singh Ram , Hemochandra L.
Published: October 2022

Improved crop technologies have a critical role in increasing crop yield and farmers’ income. The present study was undertaken to analyze the adoption of recommended potato technologies in East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. The study revealed that majority of farmers adopted recommended technologies like improved varieties, seed preparation, maintenance of spacing, FYM application, earthing up, weeding, planting and harvesting times. However, there was poor adoption of technologies like land preparation, quality seeds, seed tuber treatment, seed replacement rate and nutrient management. Poor adoption of these technologies may be the reason for the low potato yield in the study areas. The study also revealed that majority of farmers had a medium level of adoption. Therefore, farmers should be encouraged to adopt these technologies and extension activities like training, demonstrations, etc. should be provided to enhance their knowledge and skills.
Effect of Organic Manures and Fish Amino Acid on Growth and Yield of Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica L.)
Authors: Nissi Wilson I. , Debbarma Victor
Published: October 2022

A field experiment was conducted during zaid season of 2022 at an experimental field of the Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology And Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India to determine the “Effect of organic manures and fish amino acid on growth and yield of foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.)”. The treatments consist of FYM 10t/ha, poultry manure 1.6t/ha, vermicompost 1.6t/ha, foliar application of fish amino acid with 2%, 3%, 4% and control. The variety taken was SIA 3156. The experiment was carried out through a statistical design of Randomized Block Design with 10 treatments, replicated thrice. Report of the study indicate that, among different treatments application of poultry manure 1.6 t/ha and fish amino acid 3% produced significantly higher plant height (94.03 cm), higher plant dry weight (20.98 g), higher number of tillers/hill (5.27), higher crop growth rate (0.01367g/m2/day), higher leaf area index (0.066), higher number of spikes/plant (4.27), higher length of spike (16.14 cm), higher number of grains/spike (3081.20), higher test weight (3.71 g), higher grain yield (2.35 t/ha) and higher straw yield (5.53 t/ha).
Implementation and Stabilization of a Quadcopter Using Arduino and the Combination of LQR and SMC Methods
Authors: Elagib Rahmi , Karaasrlan Ahmet
Published: October 2022

This paper presents a combination of Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) and Sliding Mode Control (SMC) methods to control a four-rotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that takes off and lands vertically (VTOL). Although controlling UAVs is difficult due to their highly nonlinear characteristics, the controller successfully controlled and stabilized the quadcopter in altitude and attitude by combining the advantages of the nonlinear and linear controllers. The Newton-Euler method is employed to build the dynamic model of the quadcopter, which is divided into two subsystems: the under-controlled subsystem and the fully actuated subsystem. The entire controller model was demonstrated in MATLAB/Simulink, and results demonstrating the controller's performance in various scenarios were obtained.
Catalytic Oxidative Desulfurization of Dibenzothiophene Utilizing Composite Based Zn/Al Layered Double Hydroxide
Authors: Ahmad Nur , Fitri Erni Salasia , Wijaya Afan , Amri Amri , Mardiyanto Mardiyanto , Royani Idha , Lesbani Aldes
Published: October 2022

In this study, the Zn/Al-TiO2 and Zn/Al-ZnO was successfully synthesized. The catalysts were characterized by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR), and Scanning Electron Microscope—Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). The typical diffraction peaks of Zn/Al-LDH, TiO2, and ZnO still appear in the Zn/Al-TiO2 and Zn/Al-ZnO composites, indicating that the composite preparation did not change the form of precursors. FTIR spectra of Zn/Al-TiO2 and Zn/Al-ZnO showed absorption band at 3448, 1627, 1381, 832, 779, and 686 cm-1. The catalysts have an irregular structure where the percent mass of Ti and Zn on the composite at 10.6% and 55.6%, respectively. The acidity of Zn/Al-LDH composite increased after being composed with TiO2 and ZnO. The percentage conversion dibenzothiophene on Zn/Al-ZnO, Zn/Al-TiO2, ZnO, Zn/Al-LDH, and TiO2 was 99.38%, 96.01%, 95.36%, 94.71%, and 91.92%, respectively. The heterogeneous systems of catalytic reaction was used for reusability. After 3 cycles catalytic reactions at 50 oC for 30 min, the percentage conversion of dibenzothiophene on Zn/Al-LDH, TiO2, ZnO, Zn/Al-TiO2, and Zn/Al-ZnO were 77.42%, 83.19%, 82.34%, 84.91%, and 89.71 %, respectively. The composites of Zn/Al-TiO2 and Zn/Al-ZnO have better reusability test than Zn/Al-LDH, TiO2, and ZnO, which proofing that Zn/Al-TiO2 and Zn/Al-ZnO have a stable structure. Copyright © 2022 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Longer-Term All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality With Intensive Blood Pressure Control
Authors: Jaeger Byron C. , Bress Adam P. , Bundy Joshua D. , Cheung Alfred K. , Cushman William C. , Drawz Paul E. , Johnson Karen C. , Lewis Cora E. , Oparil Suzanne , Rocco Michael V. , Rapp Stephen R. , Supiano Mark A. , Whelton Paul K. , Williamson Jeff D. , Wright Jackson T. , Reboussin David M. , Pajewski Nicholas M.
Published: October 2022

Importance

The Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT) showed that intensive blood pressure control reduced cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, the legacy effect of intensive treatment is unknown.

Objective

To evaluate the long-term effects of randomization to intensive treatment with the incidence of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality approximately 4.5 years after the trial ended.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this secondary analysis of a multicenter randomized clinical trial, randomization began on November 8, 2010, the trial intervention ended on August 20, 2015, and trial close-out visits occurred through July 2016. Patients 50 years and older with hypertension and increased cardiovascular risk but without diabetes or history of stroke were included from 102 clinic sites in the US and Puerto Rico. Analyses were conducted between October 2021 and February 2022.

Interventions

Randomization to systolic blood pressure (SBP) goal of less than 120 mm Hg (intensive treatment group; n = 4678) vs less than 140 mm Hg (standard treatment group; n = 4683).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Extended observational follow-up for mortality via the US National Death Index from 2016 through 2020. In a subset of 2944 trial participants, outpatient SBP from electronic health records during and after the trial were examined.

Results

Among 9361 randomized participants, the mean (SD) age was 67.9 (9.4) years, and 3332 (35.6%) were women. Over a median (IQR) intervention period of 3.3 (2.9-3.9) years, intensive treatment was beneficial for both cardiovascular mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 0.66; 95% CI, 0.49-0.89) and all-cause mortality (HR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.68-1.01). However, at the median (IQR) total follow-up of 8.8 (8.3-9.3) years, there was no longer evidence of benefit for cardiovascular mortality (HR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.84-1.24) or all-cause mortality (HR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.94-1.23). In a subgroup of participants, the estimated mean outpatient SBP among participants randomized to intensive treatment increased from 132.8 mm Hg (95% CI, 132.0-133.7) at 5 years to 140.4 mm Hg (95% CI, 137.8-143.0) at 10 years following randomization.

Conclusions and Relevance

The beneficial effect of intensive treatment on cardiovascular and all-cause mortality did not persist after the trial. Given increasing outpatient SBP levels in participants randomized to intensive treatment following the trial, these results highlight the importance of consistent long-term management of hypertension.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01206062
Heterogeneous RNA editing and influence of ADAR2 on mesothelioma chemoresistance and the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Hariharan Ananya , Qi Weihong , Rehrauer Hubert , Wu Licun , Ronner Manuel , Wipplinger Martin , Kresoja‐Rakic Jelena , Sun Suna , Oton‐Gonzalez Lucia , Sculco Marika , Serre‐Beinier Véronique , Meiller Clément , Blanquart Christophe , Fonteneau Jean‐François , Vrugt Bart , Rüschoff Jan Hendrik , Opitz Isabelle , Jean Didier , de Perrot Marc , Felley‐Bosco Emanuela
Published: October 2022

We previously observed increased levels of adenosine‐deaminase‐acting‐on‐dsRNA (Adar)‐dependent RNA editing during mesothelioma development in mice exposed to asbestos. The aim of this study was to characterize and assess the role of ADAR‐dependent RNA editing in mesothelioma. We found that tumors and mesothelioma primary cultures have higher ADAR‐mediated RNA editing compared to mesothelial cells. Unsupervised clustering of editing in different genomic regions revealed heterogeneity between tumor samples as well as mesothelioma primary cultures. ADAR2 expression levels are higher in BRCA1‐associated protein 1 wild‐type tumors, with corresponding changes in RNA editing in transcripts and 3'UTR. ADAR2 knockdown and rescue models indicated a role in cell proliferation, altered cell cycle, increased sensitivity to antifolate treatment, and type‐1 interferon signaling upregulation, leading to changes in the microenvironment in vivo. Our data indicate that RNA editing contributes to mesothelioma heterogeneity and highlights an important role of ADAR2 not only in growth regulation in mesothelioma but also in chemotherapy response, in addition to regulating inflammatory response downstream of sensing nucleic acid structures.
Influence of inlet turbulent condition on the formation mechanism of local scalar concentrations
Authors: Yamasawa Haruna , Hirayama Teruaki , Kuga Kazuki , Muta Ryota , Kobayashi Tomohiro , Ito Kazuhide
Published: October 2022

In the existing ventilation design, the ventilation rate is defined by the time‐averaged flow rate, and the fluctuating (turbulence) component is not typically considered. However, inlet turbulent conditions are also assumed to have some influence on the formation of contaminant distributions. Therefore, the influence of turbulent kinetic energy at the inlet boundary on scalar transportation in an indoor environment needs to be elucidated when discussing the ventilation rate setpoint via the supply inlet in terms of local contaminant concentration control. This study discusses the impact of turbulent kinetic energy in the ventilation design on scalar transfer and its distribution within an enclosed space. To understand the influence of various inlet turbulent boundary conditions on scalar transfer, a computational fluid dynamics analysis was conducted using two different room models: a simple room and a room with a ventilation system that creates a large velocity gradient. The results indicate that scalar transfer within the room is not solely dominated by the averaged velocity input at the inlet boundary but is also strongly affected by the turbulence conditions at the inlet boundary. The numerical results indicate the possibility of a new ventilation design strategy that simultaneously considers the transfer of turbulent components and contaminants.
A Water‐Soluble AIEgen for Noninvasive Diagnosis of Kidney Fibrosis via SWIR Fluorescence and Photoacoustic Imaging
Authors: Yan Dingyuan , Li Tingting , Yang Yilin , Niu Niu , Wang Deliang , Ge Jinyin , Wang Lei , Zhang Ruiping , Wang Dong , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: October 2022

Early diagnosis of renal fibrosis is crucially significant on account of its worldwide prevalent tendency. Optical imaging in the near‐infrared window has been recognized as an appealing technique for the timely detection of renal dysfunction. However, formulating a contrast agent that allows early monitoring of renal fibrosis and concurrently renally clearable in a normal group is still challenging. Herein, a nanosized fluorophore with aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) features, namely AIE‐4PEG550 NPs, is well‐tailored and amenable to longitudinal visualization of the fibrosis progression specifically in the early‐stage via short‐wave infrared (SWIR, 900–1700 nm) fluorescence and photoacoustic bimodal imaging. The small size (≈26 nm), renally filtrable molecular weight (3.3 kDa), high renal clearance efficiency (93.1 ± 1.7% excretion through the kidneys within 24 h), outstanding imaging performance, and good biocompatibility, together make AIE‐4PEG550 NPs remarkably impressive and far superior to clinical diagnostic assays. The finding in this study would provide a blueprint for the next generation of diagnostic agents for the extent of renal fibrosis.
A Self‐Powered Dielectrophoretic Microparticle Manipulation Platform Based on a Triboelectric Nanogenerator
Authors: Zhou Jian , Tao Ye , Xue Rui , Ren Yukun
Published: October 2022

Lab‐on‐a‐chip systems aim to integrate laboratory operations on a miniaturized device with broad application prospects in the field of point‐of‐care testing. However, bulky peripheral power resources, such as high‐voltage supplies, function generators, and amplifiers, hamper the commercialization of the system. In this work, a portable, self‐powered microparticle manipulation platform based on triboelectrically driven dielectrophoresis (DEP) is reported. A rotary freestanding triboelectric nanogenerator (RF‐TENG) and rectifier/filter circuit supply a high‐voltage direct‐current signal to form a non‐uniform electric field within the microchannel, realizing controllable actuation of the microparticles through DEP. The operating mechanism of this platform and the control performance of the moving particles are systematically studied and analyzed. Randomly distributed particles converge in a row after passing through the serpentine channel and various particles are separated owing to the different DEP forces. Ultimately, the high‐efficiency separation of live and dead yeast cells is achieved using this platform. RF‐TENG as the power source for lab‐on‐a‐chip exhibits better safety and portability than traditional high‐voltage power sources. This study presents a promising solution for the commercialization of lab‐on‐a‐chip.
Metabolic Homeostasis‐Regulated Nanoparticles for Antibody‐Independent Cancer Radio‐Immunotherapy
Authors: Shen Wenhao , Liu Teng , Pei Pei , Li Junmei , Yang Sai , Zhang Yanxiang , Zhou Hailin , Hu Lin , Yang Kai
Published: October 2022

The special metabolic traits of cancer cells and tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) are promising targets for developing novel cancer therapy strategies, especially the glycolysis and mitochondrial energy metabolism. However, therapies targeting a singular metabolic pathway are always counteracted by the metabolic reprogramming of cancer, resulting in unsatisfactory therapeutic effect. Herein, this work employs poly(ethylene glycol)‐coated (PEGylated) liposomes as the drug delivery system for both mannose and levamisole hydrochloride to simultaneously inhibit glycolysis and restrain mitochondrial energy metabolism and thus inhibit tumor growth. In combination with radiotherapy, the liposomes can not only modulate the immunosuppressive TME by cellular metabolism regulation to achieve potent therapeutic effect for local tumors, but also suppress the M2 macrophage proliferation triggered by X‐ray irradiation and thus enhance the immune response to inhibit metastatic lesions. In brief, this work provides a new therapeutic strategy targeting the special metabolic traits of cancer cells and immunosuppressive TAMs to enhance the abscopal effect of radiotherapy for cancer.
CADASIL Affects Multiple Aspects of Cerebral Small Vessel Function on 7T‐MRI
Authors: van den Brink Hilde , Kopczak Anna , Arts Tine , Onkenhout Laurien , Siero Jeroen C.W. , Zwanenburg Jaco J.M. , Hein Sandra , Hübner Mathias , Gesierich Benno , Duering Marco , Stringer Michael S. , Hendrikse Jeroen , Wardlaw Joanna M. , Joutel Anne , Dichgans Martin , Biessels Geert Jan ,   the SVDs@target group
Published: October 2022

Objective

Cerebral small vessel diseases (cSVDs) are a major cause of stroke and dementia. We used cutting‐edge 7T‐MRI techniques in patients with Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy with Subcortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL), to establish which aspects of cerebral small vessel function are affected by this monogenic form of cSVD.

Methods

We recruited 23 CADASIL patients (age 51.1 ± 10.1 years, 52% women) and 13 age‐ and sex‐matched controls (46.1 ± 12.6, 46% women). Small vessel function measures included: basal ganglia and centrum semiovale perforating artery blood flow velocity and pulsatility, vascular reactivity to a visual stimulus in the occipital cortex and reactivity to hypercapnia in the cortex, subcortical gray matter, white matter, and white matter hyperintensities.

Results

Compared with controls, CADASIL patients showed lower blood flow velocity and higher pulsatility index within perforating arteries of the centrum semiovale (mean difference − 0.09 cm/s, p = 0.03 and 0.20, p = 0.009) and basal ganglia (mean difference − 0.98 cm/s, p = 0.003 and 0.17, p = 0.06). Small vessel reactivity to a short visual stimulus was decreased (blood‐oxygen‐level dependent [BOLD] mean difference −0.21%, p = 0.04) in patients, while reactivity to hypercapnia was preserved in the cortex, subcortical gray matter, and normal appearing white matter. Among patients, reactivity to hypercapnia was decreased in white matter hyperintensities compared to normal appearing white matter (BOLD mean difference −0.29%, p = 0.02).

Interpretation

Multiple aspects of cerebral small vessel function on 7T‐MRI were abnormal in CADASIL patients, indicative of increased arteriolar stiffness and regional abnormalities in reactivity, locally also in relation to white matter injury. These observations provide novel markers of cSVD for mechanistic and intervention studies. ANN NEUROL 2023;93:29–39
Parameterized Two‐Qubit Gates for Enhanced Variational Quantum Eigensolver
Authors: Rasmussen Stig Elkjær , Zinner Nikolaj Thomas
Published: October 2022

The variational quantum eigensolver is a prominent hybrid quantum‐classical algorithm expected to impact near‐term quantum devices. They are usually based on a circuit ansatz consisting of parameterized single‐qubit gates and fixed two‐qubit gates. The effect of parameterized two‐qubit gates in the variational quantum eigensolver is studied. A variational quantum eigensolver algorithm is simulated using fixed and parameterized two‐qubit gates in the circuit ansatz and it is shown that the parameterized versions outperform the fixed versions, both when it comes to best energy and reducing outliers, for a range of Hamiltonians with applications in quantum chemistry and materials science.
Heterogeneous Hollow Multi‐Shelled Structures with Amorphous‐Crystalline Outer‐Shells for Sequential Photoreduction of CO2
Authors: Wei Yanze , You Feifei , Zhao Decai , Wan Jiawei , Gu Lin , Wang Dan
Published: October 2022

Constructing delicate nano‐/microreactors with tandem active sites in hierarchical architectures is a promising strategy for designing photocatalysts to realize the challenging but attractive CO2 reduction. Herein, hollow multi‐shelled structure (HoMS) based microreactors with spatial ordered hetero‐shells are fabricated, which achieve two‐step CO2‐to‐CH4 photoreduction. The multiple inner CeO2 shells increase the number of active catalytic sites to ensure efficient first‐step reaction for generating CO, along with enriching the local CO concentration. The second‐step CO‐to‐CH4 reaction is consequently induced by amorphous TiO2 (A‐TiO2) composites on the adjacent outer‐most shell, thus realizing the CO2‐to‐CH4 conversion capability using one CeO2@CeO2/A‐TiO2 HoMS. In‐depth explorations in the microreactors provide compositional, structural, and interfacial guidance for engineering HoMS‐based microreactors with temporally–spatially ordered shells toward efficient tandem catalysis.
4D printing of bilayer tubular structure with dual‐stimuli responsive based on self‐rolling behavior
Authors: Cao Pengrui , Yang Jing , Gong Junhui , Tao Liming , Wang Tingmei , Ju Junping , Zhou Yanyi , Wang Qihua , Zhang Yaoming
Published: October 2022

Self‐rolling allows the bilayer to transform into a 3D structure in response to specific external stimulation, such as heat, humidity, ions, etc. Herein, we report a 4D printing bilayer with a top sodium alginate layer and bottom polycaprolactone layer that could be rolled up to a tubular structure upon exposure to heat and Ca2+ solution stimulation. The discrepancy in the swelling and thermal‐responsiveness between alginate and polycaprolactone induced the self‐rolling under different stimuli. The self‐rolling behavior of the bilayer depends on the aspect ratio, thickness ratio of the bilayer film, the pattern, and external stimuli. Thus, a tailorable surface of the self‐rolled tube was obtained by tuning the bilayer parameter and the stimuli medium to meet varied demands. This controllable shape changing provides a strategy for the preparation of well‐defined tubular structures. Besides, the biocompatibility of bilayer film suggests the potential application in the field of biomedical device such as vascular stent.
Hyperostotic bones observed in the first record specimen of spotted sicklefish,Drepane punctata(Linnaeus, 1788), from the Gulf of Oman
Authors: Al Abri Nadir M. , Jawad Laith A. , Al‐Nahdi Abdullah
Published: October 2022

This is the first confirmed record of a 430 mm TL spotted sicklefish,Drepane punctata(Linnaeus, 1758), in the Gulf of Oman collected in August 2021. Here, we describe a hyperostotic deformity in the head, maxilla and premaxilla, dorsal fin, caudal fin rays, and neural and haemal spines of some vertebrae. In the head, the occipital and supraoccipital crests were swollen. Also, we compare morphometric and meristic data with other specimens from other geographic regions. Novel hyperostosis characteristics found forD. punctataare compared to previously documented instances.
Indoor environment in office buildings – Perception of personal control and use of adaptive opportunities at workplaces
Authors: Al‐Atrash Farah Z. , Hellwig Runa T. , Wagner Andreas
Published: October 2022

Personal control has a considerable impact on individual perception of the indoor climate. This paper's objective is to shed more light on the perception of personal control at office workplaces by analysing: 1) the impact of perceived control on perception of indoor climate, 2) the effect of office type and season on level of control perceived, 3) objectively available adaptive opportunities; 4) subjective perception of their availability; 5) occupants' desire for certain adaptive opportunities; 6) how often and which controls were exercised; and 7) reasons for not exercising available adaptive opportunities. New variables were introduced: i) consistency of perception of controls and ii) conformity to expectation of controls, and their correlation with the level of personal control perceived hypothesised. A longitudinal survey was carried out in three office buildings (two mixed‐mode, one free‐running) in the hot‐summer Mediterranean climate of Amman, Jordan during four seasons. Indoor climate perception correlates positively with perceived control. Office type affects level of perceived control but not season. Most frequent stated reason for not exercising available adaptive opportunities was ‘no need to change’. In this study, perceived control is not correlated with consistency of perception of controls but correlated with conformity to expectation of controls.
Did the court dismiss professor's free speech claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: October 2022

A tenured North Carolina State University professor in the higher education program circulated an article from Inside Higher Ed discussing an NCSU faculty search committee.
Cognitive impairment in adolescent and young adult cancer patients: Pre‐treatment findings of a longitudinal study
Authors: Chan Alexandre , Cheng Ivy , Wang Claire , Tan Chia Jie , Toh Yi Long , Ng Ding Quan , Koh Yong Qin , Zhou Hanzhang , Foo Koon Mian , Chan Raymond Javan , Ho Han Kiat , Chew Lita , Farid Mohamad , Tannock Ian
Published: October 2022

Background

There is little information about cancer‐related cognitive impairment (CRCI) in adolescent and young adults (AYA, 15–39 years old) due to its rare incidence. Here, we present the pre‐treatment (before chemotherapy or radiotherapy) evaluation of cognitive function and ability of AYA with cancer (AYAC) in a multicentered cohort study.

Methods

Newly diagnosed AYAC and age‐matched healthy controls (HC) were recruited between 2018 and 2021. The primary outcome was the comparison of pre‐treatment cognitive impairment defined as 2 standard deviations (SDs) below the HC on ≥1 cognitive test, or >1.5 SDs below on ≥2 tests using CANTAB® between AYAC and HC. Secondary outcomes included self‐perceived cognitive ability assessed by FACT‐Cog v3 and biomarkers (inflammatory cytokines and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor [BDNF]).

Results

We recruited 74 AYAC (median age = 34) and 118 HC (median age = 32). On objective cognitive testing, we observed three times more AYAC patients performed poorly on at least 2 cognitive tests compared to HC (40.5% vs. 13.6%, p < 0.001). AYAC self‐perceived less degree of cognitive impairment than HC (p < 0.001). However, AYAC perceived a greater impact of cognitive changes on their quality of life compared to HC (p = 0.039). Elevated baseline inflammatory markers (IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10 and IFN‐γ) were observed among AYAC compared to HC, and baseline BDNF was lower in AYAC compared to HC. Interaction effects between cancer diagnosis and biomarkers were observed in predicting cognitive function.

Conclusion

With the pre‐existence of CRCI and risk factors of neuroinflammation even prior to systemic therapy, AYAC should receive early rehabilitation to prevent further deterioration of cognitive function after initiation of systemic therapies. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03476070).
Synthesis of an Antimicrobial Enterobactin‐Muraymycin Conjugate for Improved Activity Against Gram‐Negative Bacteria
Authors: Rohrbacher Christian , Zscherp Robert , Weck Stefanie C. , Klahn Philipp , Ducho Christian
Published: October 2022

Overcoming increasing antibiotic resistance requires the development of novel antibacterial agents that address new targets in bacterial cells. Naturally occurring nucleoside antibiotics (such as muraymycins) inhibit the bacterial membrane protein MraY, a clinically unexploited essential enzyme in peptidoglycan (cell wall) biosynthesis. Even though a range of synthetic muraymycin analogues has already been reported, they generally suffer from limited cellular uptake and a lack of activity against Gram‐negative bacteria. We herein report an approach to overcome these hurdles: a synthetic muraymycin analogue has been conjugated to a siderophore, i. e. the enterobactin derivative EntKL, to increase the cellular uptake into Gram‐negative bacteria. The resultant conjugate showed significantly improved antibacterial activity against an efflux‐deficient E. coli strain, thus providing a proof‐of‐concept of this novel approach and a starting point for the future optimisation of such conjugates towards potent agents against Gram‐negative pathogens.