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1
Verde, Paola, Cinzia Marcantonio, Angela Costantino, Antonio Martina, Matteo Simeoni, Stefania Taffon, Elena Tritarelli, et al. "Diagnostic accuracy of a SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen test among military and civilian personnel of an Air Force airport in central Italy." PLOS ONE 17, no. 11 (November 28, 2022): e0277904. http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0277904.
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Background Most SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen detection tests (RADTs) validation studies have been performed on specimens from COVID-19 patients and negative controls or from mostly symptomatic individuals. Herein we evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of AFIAS COVID-19 Ag, hereinafter denominated as AFIAS, during a COVID-19 screening program surveillance testing conducted among personnel of an Italian military airport. Methods Nasopharyngeal swabs (NPSs) were collected from study participants and were analysed by both AFIAS and RT-PCR assay. A questionnaire collecting demographic and exposure data were administered to all participants. AFIAS accuracy parameters including Cohen’s kappa (K) were determined. Results Overall, from November 2020 to April 2021, 1294 (NPSs) were collected from 1183 participants (88.6% males, 11.4% females; mean age were 41.3, median age 42). Forty-nine NPSs (3.78%) were positive by RT-PCR, while 54 NPSs were positive by AFIAS. Overall baseline sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were 0.633, 0.981, 0.574, 0.985, respectively and K was 0.585 (moderate). AFIAS sensitivity tended to be higher for NPSs with higher viral load. A higher sensitivity (0.944) compared to the overall baseline sensitivity (0.633) was also found for NPSs from participants with COVID-19 compatible symptoms, for which K was 0.891 (almost perfect). Instead, AFIAS sensitivity was quite poor for NPSs from asymptomatic participants. Most false negative NPSs in this group had moderate viral load. Conclusion Overall, AFIAS showed high specificity but only moderate sensitivity, mainly because of the high proportion of asymptomatic participants. However, AFIAS showed good sensitivity for NPSs with high viral load and nearly optimal accuracy parameters for NPSs from participants with COVID-19 compatible symptoms. Thus, taking into consideration its performance features, this test can be useful for COVID-19 case identification and management as well as for infection control.
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Burke, Shanna L., Adrienne Grudzien, Mitra Naseh, and Tamara J. Cadet. "NEUROPSYCHIATRIC SYMPTOMS AND FUNCTIONAL ACTIVITIES AMONG OLDER ADULTS: THE ROLE OF ETHNICITY AND COGNITIVE STATUS." Innovation in Aging 3, Supplement_1 (November 2019): S315. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/geroni/igz038.1152.
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Abstract Little is known about the likelihood of future functional deficits based on current neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs). This study seeks to examine the impact of NPSs on functional activities (FAs) by cognitive status and ethnicity. A secondary analysis of the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set was conducted using ordered logistic regression to examine the effect of NPSs (based on the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire [NPI-Q]) on FAs (based on Functional Assessment Questionnaire). Participants had a mean age of 74 (SD: 9.88) and were included if normal cognition was assessed at baseline (n= 13,470). Higher rates of NPSs were associated with higher dependency in almost all FAs. Among NPSs, apathy was the best predictor (p<.05) of FAs for participants in different cognitive groups and ethnicity subsamples. The impact of other NPSs varied. Anxiety and apathy were the best predictors of FAs among participants with cognitive impairment (but not MCI). Among those who eventually developed dementia (n= 6,818), delusions, hallucinations, agitation, depression, irritability, and motor disturbance were significantly associated (p<.05) with future deficits in FAs. Among Hispanics (n=1,095), hallucinations, agitation, apathy, and motor disturbance were significantly associated with dependency in FAs, while for non-Hispanics, all NPSs were associated with dependency in FAs, except elation and nighttime disturbance. Findings suggest as the severity of the NPSs increases, older adults experience higher levels of dependency in FAs. The nature and extent of NPSs’ impact on FAs varied based on cognitive status and ethnicity, suggesting the importance of considering these factors in service provision.
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Chai, Yu, Jaffar Hasnain, Kushaan Bahl, Matthew Wong, Dong Li, Phillip Geissler, Paul Y. Kim, et al. "Direct observation of nanoparticle-surfactant assembly and jamming at the water-oil interface." Science Advances 6, no. 48 (November 2020): eabb8675. http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.abb8675.
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Electrostatic interactions between nanoparticles (NPs) and functionalized ligands lead to the formation of NP surfactants (NPSs) that assemble at the water-oil interface and form jammed structures. To understand the interfacial behavior of NPSs, it is necessary to understand the mechanism by which the NPSs attach to the interface and how this attachment depends on the areal coverage of the interface. Through direct observation with high spatial and temporal resolution, using laser scanning confocal microscopy and in situ atomic force microscopy (AFM), we observe that early-stage attachment of NPs to the interface is diffusion limited and with increasing areal density of the NPSs, further attachment requires cooperative displacement of the previously assembled NPSs both laterally and vertically. The unprecedented detail provided by in situ AFM reveals the complex mechanism of attachment and the deeply nonequilibrium nature of the assembly.
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Liew, Tau Ming. "Neuropsychiatric symptoms in early stage of Alzheimer’s and non-Alzheimer’s dementia, and the risk of progression to severe dementia." Age and Ageing 50, no. 5 (March 25, 2021): 1709–18. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afab044.
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Abstract Background Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) in early dementia have been suggested to predict a higher risk of dementia progression. However, the literature is not yet clear whether the risk is similar across Alzheimer's dementia (AD) and non-Alzheimer's dementia (non-AD), as well as across different NPSs. This study examined the association between NPSs in early dementia and the risk of progression to severe dementia, specifically in AD and non-AD, as well as across various NPSs. Method This cohort study included 7,594 participants who were ≥65 years and had early dementia (global Clinical Dementia Rating [CDR] = 1). Participants completed Neuropsychiatric-Inventory–Questionnaire at baseline and were followed-up almost annually for progression to severe dementia (global CDR = 3) (median follow-up = 3.5 years; interquartile range = 2.1–5.9 years). Cox regression was used to examine progression risk, stratified by AD and non-AD. Results The presence of NPSs was associated with risk of progression to severe dementia, but primarily in AD (HR 1.4, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1–1.6) and not in non-AD (HR 0.9, 95% CI: 0.5–1.5). When comparing across various NPSs, seven NPSs in AD were associated with disease progression, and they were depression, anxiety, apathy, delusions, hallucinations, irritability and motor disturbance (HR 1.2–1.6). In contrast, only hallucinations and delusions were associated with disease progression in non-AD (HR 1.7–1.9). Conclusions NPSs in early dementia—especially among individuals with AD—can be useful prognostic markers of disease progression. They may inform discussion on advanced care planning and prompt clinical review to incorporate evidence-based interventions that may address disease progression.
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Tasi, Chi-Tsung, Wei-Kai Wang, Sin-Liang Ou, Shih-Yung Huang, Ray-Hua Horng, and Dong-Sing Wuu. "Structural and Stress Properties of AlGaN Epilayers Grown on AlN-Nanopatterned Sapphire Templates by Hydride Vapor Phase Epitaxy." Nanomaterials 8, no. 9 (September 10, 2018): 704. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/nano8090704.
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In this paper, we report the epitaxial growth and material characteristics of AlGaN (Al mole fraction of 10%) on an AlN/nanopatterned sapphire substrate (NPSS) template by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE). The crystalline quality, surface morphology, microstructure, and stress state of the AlGaN/AlN/NPSS epilayers were investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results indicate that the crystal quality of the AlGaN film could be improved when grown on the AlN/NPSS template. The screw threading dislocation (TD) density was reduced to 1.4 × 109 cm−2 for the AlGaN epilayer grown on the AlN/NPSS template, which was lower than that of the sample grown on a flat c-plane sapphire substrate (6.3 × 109 cm−2). As examined by XRD measurements, the biaxial tensile stress of the AlGaN film was significantly reduced from 1,187 MPa (on AlN/NPSS) to 38.41 MPa (on flat c-plane sapphire). In particular, an increase of the Al content in the overgrown AlGaN layer was confirmed by the TEM observation. This could be due to the relaxation of the in-plane stress through the AlGaN and AlN/NPSS template interface.
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Kanduri, Meena, Chandrasekhar Kanduri, Piero Mariano, Alexander A. Vostrov, Wolfgang Quitschke, Victor Lobanenkov, and Rolf Ohlsson. "Multiple Nucleosome Positioning Sites Regulate the CTCF-Mediated Insulator Function of the H19 Imprinting Control Region†." Molecular and Cellular Biology 22, no. 10 (May 15, 2002): 3339–44. http://dx.doi.org/10.1128/mcb.22.10.3339-3344.2002.
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ABSTRACT The 5′ region of the H19 gene harbors a methylation-sensitive chromatin insulator within an imprinting control region (ICR). Insertional mutagenesis in combination with episomal assays identified nucleosome positioning sequences (NPSs) that set the stage for the remarkably precise distribution of the four target sites for the chromatin insulator protein CTCF to nucleosome linker sequences in the H19 ICR. Changing positions of the NPSs resulted in loss of both CTCF target site occupancy and insulator function, suggesting that the NPSs optimize the fidelity of the insulator function. We propose that the NPSs ensure the fidelity of the repressed status of the maternal Igf2 allele during development by constitutively maintaining availability of the CTCF target sites.
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Smith, Jamie P., Oliver B. Sutcliffe, and Craig E. Banks. "An overview of recent developments in the analytical detection of new psychoactive substances (NPSs)." Analyst 140, no. 15 (2015): 4932–48. http://dx.doi.org/10.1039/c5an00797f.
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New psychoactive substances (NPSs) are a class of compounds that have been recently made available for abuse. Following an unprecedented increase in the number of NPSs in the last 5 years this mini-review overviews this recent emerging research area and the analytical approaches reported.
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Sberna, Giuseppe, Eleonora Lalle, Maria Beatrice Valli, Licia Bordi, Anna Rosa Garbuglia, and Alessandra Amendola. "Changes in the Circulation of Common Respiratory Pathogens among Hospitalized Patients with Influenza-like Illnesses in the Lazio Region (Italy) during Fall Season of the Past Three Years." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 19, no. 10 (May 13, 2022): 5962. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19105962.
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A descriptive analysis of common respiratory pathogens (CRPs) detected in nasopharyngeal swabs (NPSs) from hospitalized patients with influenza-like illness during the fall seasons of the past three years, 2019–2021, in the Lazio region, Italy, was conducted to assess whether or not CRP circulation changed because of COVID-19 during the fall season. The results observed in a total of 633 NPSs subjected to molecular diagnosis for CRPs by multiplex PCR assay during the autumn seasons (exactly from week 41 to week 50) were compared with each other. In 2019, in 144 NPSs, the more represented CRPs were rhinovirus/enterovirus (7.6%) and influenza A/B (4.2%). In 2020, 55 (21.6%) out of 255 NPSs resulted positive for SARS-CoV-2 and, except for one case of Legionella pneumophila, the CRPs detected were exclusively rhinovirus/enterovirus (4.7%). In 2021, among 234 NPSs, 25.6% resulted positive for SARS-CoV-2, 14.5% for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and 12.8% for rhinovirus/enterovirus. Compared with 2019, in 2020, CRP circulation was severely limited to a few cases; in 2021, instead, infections by RSV (detected also among adults), rhinovirus/enterovirus, and other respiratory pathogens were observed again, while influenza was practically absent. The comparison of the CRPs detected in the NPSs depicts a different circulation in the Lazio region during the last three fall seasons. CRP monitoring has a direct impact on the prevention and control strategies of respiratory infectious diseases, such as the non-pharmacological interventions implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Future studies should investigate the impact of specific interventions on the spread of respiratory infections.
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Chang, Yang-Pei, Ching-Fang Chien, Sun-Wung Hsieh, Ling-Chun Huang, Chung-Fen Lin, Chih-Cheng Hsu, and Yuan-Han Yang. "Prevalence and Risk Factors of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Institutionalized Patients with Parkinson’s Disease in Taiwan: A Nationwide Observational Study." Healthcare 11, no. 2 (January 13, 2023): 258. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11020258.
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Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) are known to be frequent in Parkinson’s disease (PD) with great impacts on the quality of life, but reports about the prevalence in institutions are few. Our aim was to investigate the prevalence of and risk factors for NPSs in institutionalized patients with PD in Taiwan. The National Health Research Institute executed a cross-sectional, community-based, observational study on residential long-term care service institutions. The diagnosis of PD was determined by physicians with the estimated Hoehn and Yahr stage of PD according to the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire. A total of 370 patients with PD (80.1 ± 9.94 years old, 55.1% females) were included, and 139 (37.6%) had more than one NPS in the prior 3 months. The top three NPSs were nighttime behavior (65 (17.6%)), depression (53 (14.3%)), and fear/anxiety (49 (13.2%)). There were no differences between those with NPS and those without NPS in terms of age, gender, education, Mini-Mental State Examination, or Hoehn and Yahr stage. However, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that genitourinary disease (odds ratio (OR) = 3.13; 95% confidence interval (95%CI) = 1.77–5.51) and psychiatric disorders (OR = 5.18; 95%CI = 3.09–8.69) may be associated with increased risk of NPSs. Increased physical restraint was observed in residents with advanced PD. Genitourinary disease and psychiatric disorders appear to increase the risk of NPSs in institutionalized residents with PD.
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Wergeland, Jon N., Geir Selbæk, Lisbeth D. Høgset, Ulrika Söderhamn, and Øyvind Kirkevold. "Dementia, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and the use of psychotropic drugs among older people who receive domiciliary care: a cross-sectional study." International Psychogeriatrics 26, no. 3 (November 20, 2013): 383–91. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s1041610213002032.
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ABSTRACTBackground:The objective of this study was to (a) determine the prevalence of cognitive impairment, dementia, and neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) among home-dwelling people, 70 years and older (70+ years), who receive domiciliary care, and (b) describe their use of psychotropic drugs. Few studies have investigated dementia among people receiving in-home care.Methods:A sample (N = 1,000) representative of people aged 70+ years receiving domiciliary care was randomly recruited for participation. A standardized interview with the participants and their next of kin were performed using well-established assessment scales. Two clinical experts independently diagnosed dementia according to ICD-10 criteria.Results:Of the 415 participants (41.5%) with dementia according to ICD-10 criteria, 19.5% had a dementia diagnosis known to the patient themselves, their caregiver, or health workers in the domiciliary care service. In the previous month, 72.1% exhibited NPSs (21.1% rated as clinically significant), with depression (47.5%), apathy (33.7%), anxiety (33.0%), and irritability (31.1%) being the most common. Psychotropic drugs were regularly used by 40.1% of the sample. Antidepressants (p = 0.001) and cognitive enhancers (p < 0.001) were more often given to people with dementia than to those without dementia.Conclusions:Dementia and NPSs are highly prevalent among people who receive domiciliary care, and diagnostic disclosure is low. People with dementia constitute a distinct group with respect to NPSs and psychotropic drug use. Early detection and correct diagnosis might increase the understanding of their everyday challenges and enable families to alleviate consequences of dementia and NPSs.
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Carfora, Anna, Raffaella Petrella, Giusy Ambrosio, Ilaria Fracassi, Stefano Festinese, Alessandro Feola, and Carlo Pietro Campobasso. "Toxicological Analysis of Illicit Drugs Seized in Naples (Italy) and First Detection of Synthetic Cannabinoids during COVID-19 Pandemic." Healthcare 10, no. 8 (August 8, 2022): 1488. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10081488.
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The COVID-19 pandemic has consistently raised the number of drug seizures, in United States as in Europe. The COVID-19 pandemic has also changed the typology of seizures from “more traditional” drugs to New Psychoactive Substances (NPSs), depending on geographical area. In Europe, the most frequent NPSs are synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) and cathinones, nonetheless synthetic opioids and phenethylamines are widely used. The aim of the study is the detection of NPS and other substances of abuse available in the black market, by quali/quantitative methods in LC-MS/MS and GC-MS. From 2018 to 2021, 268 seizures occurred in total and were analyzed by the Forensic Toxicology Laboratory (FTL) of Naples (Italy). The distribution of analyzed seizures over the years is the following: 53 in 2018, 61 in 2019, 89 in 2020 and 65 during the first semester of 2021. Cannabis was the most detected drug both in hashish and marijuana seizures, followed by cocaine > heroine > prescribed drugs > ketamine–amphetamine MDMA. No NPSs were seized until June 2021, when NPSs were found in two different seizures: Case #1 showed a bar of Cannabis resin containing a low level of Δ9THC = 0.57% associated to SC AB-FUBINACA in 4.5%; Case #2 showed a vegetal resinous substance (Δ9THC = 0.27%) with SC 5F-APINACA (4.1%) associated with methadone (1.0%). The detection of NPSs is alarming evidence that can lead to an increase in the risk of overdose or other negative and unpredictable consequences, such as violent or self-harming behavior in unaware users of cannabis derivatives considered of “natural” origin.
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Hashim, Ahmed M. M., Ahmed M. Hassan, Ghada Essam El-Din Amin, and Mohamed Farouk Allam. "Prevalence of Strox Smoking Among University Students in Cairo, Egypt." Open Public Health Journal 13, no. 1 (August 19, 2020): 425–29. http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1874944502013010425.
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Background: In Egypt, the prevalence rate of New Psychoactive Substances (NPSs) use is severely underestimated. In the last 5 years, several non-scientific reports have demonstrated the presence of an emergent, cheap NPSs that has taken the name of “Strox” or “Egyptian Spice”. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence rate of Strox smoking among undergraduate students attending Ain Shams University (ASU), Cairo (Egypt). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in five non-medical colleges of ASU, namely, Law, Commerce, Computer Science, Engineering, and Literature. Participants were recruited using a convenient sampling method and were asked about NPSs use. Data were collected using the Marijuana Smoking History Questionnaire (MSHQ) developed by Bonn-Miller and Zvolensky (2009). The questionnaire was translated and modified to reflect Egyptian slang and culture. Results: This study included 558 students, 422 (75.6%) males and 136 (24.4%) females. The results showed that 189 (33.9%) were current tobacco smokers, 51 (9.1%) were smokers of substances other than tobacco, 45 (8.1%) were cannabis smokers, 38 (6.8%) were Strox smokers, and 3 (0.5%) were Voodoo smokers. When students were asked about their reasons for smoking Strox, they cited the following motivations: to achieve a feeling of euphoria(28.9%), depression (23.7%), experimentation (23.7%), peer pressure (21.1%), and having excess money (2.6%). The results showed a clear association between tobacco and cannabis smoking and consumption of Strox. Conclusion: Although the prevalence rates of NPSs usage as observed in this study were not high, higher rates could be expected in other communities outside of the university. Community-based studies are needed to estimate the magnitude of NPSs use in Egypt and the associated risk factors.
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Nagata, Tomoyuki, Shunichiro Shinagawa, Keisuke Inamura, and Masahiro Shigeta. "Pathogenesis and Personalized Interventions for Pharmacological Treatment-Resistant Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Alzheimer’s Disease." Journal of Personalized Medicine 12, no. 9 (August 24, 2022): 1365. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/jpm12091365.
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Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, with cognitive impairment as a core symptom. Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) also occur as non-cognitive symptoms during the disease course, worsening the prognosis. Recent treatment guidelines for NPSs have recommended non-pharmacological treatments as the first line of therapy, followed by pharmacological treatments. However, pharmacological treatment for urgent NPSs can be difficult because of a lack of efficacy or an intolerance, requiring multiple changes in psychotropic prescriptions. One biological factor that might be partly responsible for this difficulty is structural deterioration in elderly people with dementia, which may cause a functional vulnerability affecting the pharmacological response. Other causative factors might include awkward psychosocial interpersonal relations between patients and their caregiver, resulting in distressful vicious circles. Overlapping NPS sub-symptoms can also blur the prioritization of targeted symptoms. Furthermore, consistent neurocognitive reductions cause a primary apathy state and a secondary distorted ideation or perception of present objects, leading to reactions that cannot be treated pharmacologically. The present review defines treatment-resistant NPSs in AD; it may be necessary and helpful for clinicians to discuss the pathogenesis and comprehensive solutions based on three major hypothetical pathophysiological viewpoints: (1) biology, (2) psychosociology, and (3) neurocognition.
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Mijatović Jovin, Vesna, Nina Skoko, Ana Tomas, Dejan Živanović, Darija Sazdanić, Nemanja Gvozdenović, and Ana-Marija Vejnović. "New Psychoactive Substances: Awareness and Attitudes of Future Health Care Professionals in Serbia." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 19, no. 22 (November 11, 2022): 14877. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192214877.
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This study was conducted in order to evaluate prospective health care professionals’ (HCPs) awareness and attitudes regarding new psychoactive substances (NPSs) in the context of their future role in the prevention and treatment of NPS overdose and addiction. Correlates of NPS perception and use were also examined. This cross-sectional survey was performed on 490 students of the Faculty of Medicine, Novi Sad, Serbia, during 2017. NPS awareness was better in pharmacy students (IRR: 1.926, CI: 1.173–3.163, p = 0.010) than in medicine students—pharmacy students recognized 92.6% more NPS names than their peers studying medicine. Female students knew 36.5% less NPS names than their male colleagues (IRR: 0.635, CI: 0.399–1.013, p = 0.049). Number of NPS names students knew was rising by 15.9% with each age group—the higher the age, the larger the number of NPSs they were aware of (IRR: 1.159, CI: 1.025–1.310, p = 0.018). Students who had used marijuana knew 52.6% more NPS names than those who had never had experience with cannabis (IRR: 1.526, CI: 0.953–2.445, p = 0.049). Although a high number of future HCPs claimed to know what NPSs are, numerous misconceptions were noticed. Further educational efforts are necessary to improve their awareness and attitudes regarding NPSs.
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Busardò, Francesco, and Simona Pichini. "Molecular Insights on New Psychoactive Substances (NPSs)." International Journal of Molecular Sciences 23, no. 6 (March 18, 2022): 3282. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijms23063282.
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Currently, more than 1000 molecules have been classified as New Psychoactive Substances (NPSs), and it is reported that, every year, this number increases with new classes of compounds and/or newer generations of NPS families [...]
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Wei, Wenwang, Yi Peng, Jiabin Wang, Muhammad Farooq Saleem, Wen Wang, Lei Li, Yukun Wang, and Wenhong Sun. "Temperature Dependence of Stress and Optical Properties in AlN Films Grown by MOCVD." Nanomaterials 11, no. 3 (March 10, 2021): 698. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/nano11030698.
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AlN epilayers were grown on a 2-inch [0001] conventional flat sapphire substrate (CSS) and a nano-patterned sapphire substrate (NPSS) by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition. In this work, the effect of the substrate template and temperature on stress and optical properties of AlN films has been studied by using Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-visible spectrophotometer and spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE). The AlN on NPSS exhibits lower compressive stress and strain values. The biaxial stress decreases from 1.59 to 0.60 GPa for AlN on CSS and from 0.90 to 0.38 GPa for AlN on NPSS sample in the temperature range 80–300 K, which shows compressive stress. According to the TEM data, the stress varies from tensile on the interface to compressive on the surface. It can be deduced that the nano-holes provide more channels for stress relaxation. Nano-patterning leads to a lower degree of disorder and stress/strain relaxes by the formation of the nano-hole structure between the interface of AlN epilayers and the substrate. The low crystal disorder and defects in the AlN on NPSS is confirmed by the small Urbach energy values. The variation in bandgap (Eg) and optical constants (n, k) with temperature are discussed in detail. Nano-patterning leads to poor light transmission due to light scattering, coupling, and trapping in nano-holes.
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Wang, Hefeng, Jiaojiao Zhang, and Xiaomin Jin. "Effects of Anodization-Assisted Electrodeposition Conditions on the Fabrication of CuO-Cu2O Coatings on Nanoporous Stainless Steel." Advances in Materials Science and Engineering 2020 (July 27, 2020): 1–8. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2020/8104242.
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Surface functionalization can be utilized as a useful tool to improve the antibacterial performances of medical devices. Furthermore, some antibacterial agents are coated or impregnated on the surface of 316LSS to prevent contamination of bacteria. Here, CuO-Cu2O coatings were prepared on 316L nanoporous stainless steel (NPSS) by anodization-assisted electrodeposition for applications in antibacterial materials. The present study investigated influences of HClO4 concentration, reaction temperature, and load voltage on the morphology, structure, and composition of the coatings. SEM images showed that appropriate nanopores with an average size of about 93 nm were formed on the stainless steel surface and then were successfully filled with CuO-Cu2O. The nanopore size increased with increasing application of electrolyte concentration. Both the diameter and depth of the nanopores increased with increasing voltage. The EDX result indicated that Cu and O were embedded in as-prepared CuO-Cu2O/NPSS. XRD analysis showed that the CuO-Cu2O/NPSS surface comprised CuO and Cu2O.
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Pisanu, Augusta, Giacomo Lo Russo, Giuseppe Talani, Jessica Bratzu, Carlotta Siddi, Fabrizio Sanna, Marco Diana, Patrizia Porcu, Maria Antonietta De Luca, and Liana Fattore. "Effects of the Phenethylamine 2-Cl-4,5-MDMA and the Synthetic Cathinone 3,4-MDPHP in Adolescent Rats: Focus on Sex Differences." Biomedicines 10, no. 10 (September 20, 2022): 2336. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines10102336.
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The illicit drug market of novel psychoactive substances (NPSs) is expanding, becoming an alarming threat due to increasing intoxication cases and insufficient (if any) knowledge of their effects. Phenethylamine 2-chloro-4,5-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (2-Cl-4,5-MDMA) and synthetic cathinone 3,4-methylenedioxy-α-pyrrolidinohexanophenone (3,4-MDPHP) are new, emerging NPSs suggested to be particularly dangerous. This study verified whether these two new drugs (i) possess abuse liability, (ii) alter plasma corticosterone levels, and (iii) interfere with dopaminergic transmission; male and female adolescent rats were included to evaluate potential sex differences in the drug-induced effects. Findings show that the two NPSs are not able to sustain reliable self-administration behavior in rats, with cumulatively earned injections of drugs being not significantly different from cumulatively earned injections of saline in control groups. Yet, at the end of the self-administration training, females (but not males) exhibited higher plasma corticosterone levels after chronic exposure to low levels of 3,4-MDPHP (but not of 2-Cl-4,5-MDMA). Finally, electrophysiological patch-clamp recordings in the rostral ventral tegmental area (rVTA) showed that both drugs are able to increase the firing rate of rVTA dopaminergic neurons in males but not in females, confirming the sex dimorphic effects of these two NPSs. Altogether, this study demonstrates that 3,4-MDPHP and 2-Cl-4,5-MDMA are unlikely to induce dependence in occasional users but can induce other effects at both central and peripheral levels that may significantly differ between males and females.
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Saari, Toni, Ilona Hallikainen, Taina Hintsa, and Anne M. Koivisto. "Neuropsychiatric symptoms and activities of daily living in Alzheimer’s disease: ALSOVA 5-year follow-up study." International Psychogeriatrics 32, no. 6 (October 28, 2019): 741–51. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s1041610219001571.
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ABSTRACTBackground:Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are related to activities of daily living (ADLs), but longitudinal studies are sparse.Objectives:We investigated which NPSs were related to decline in instrumental ADLs (IADLs) and basic ADLs (BADLs) in a 5-year follow-up of individuals with AD.Methods:ALSOVA 5-year follow-up study data of 236 individuals with very mild or mild AD at baseline and their caregiver were analyzed. IADLs and BADLs were assessed with Alzheimer’s Disease Cooperative Study ADL inventory, and NPSs with Neuropsychiatric Inventory at annual follow-up visits. Generalized estimating equations (GEEs) were used for longitudinal data analysis, and NPS–ADL networks were estimated to demonstrate symptom interactions.Results:Apathy [rate ratio (RR) 1.23, 95% CI 1.06–1.44, p = 0.007], aberrant motor behavior (RR 1.24, 95% CI 1.07–1.44, p = 0.005), and appetite disturbances (RR 1.22, 95% CI 1.06–1.41, p = 0.005) were related to impairment in BADLs, and the same symptoms (RR 1.13, 95% CI 1.07–1.21, p < 0.001; RR 1.13, 95% CI 1.07–1.20, p < 0.001; RR 1.14; 95% CI 1.08–1.21, p < 0.001, for apathy, aberrant motor behavior, and appetite disturbances, respectively), in addition to delusions (RR 1.09, 95% CI 1.03–1.15, p = 0.004), were related to IADL impairment. Symptom networks varied at different time points.Conclusion:As AD progresses, common (apathy) and uncommon NPSs (aberrant motor behavior, appetite disturbances, delusions) seem to be related to ADLs through various symptom interactions. Previous literature suggests that frontal pathology could underlie these relationships.
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Gonçalves, Joana, Ângelo Luís, Eugenia Gallardo, and Ana Paula Duarte. "Psychoactive Substances of Natural Origin: Toxicological Aspects, Therapeutic Properties and Analysis in Biological Samples." Molecules 26, no. 5 (March 5, 2021): 1397. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/molecules26051397.
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The consumption of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) has been increasing, and this problem affects several countries worldwide. There is a class of NPSs of natural origin, consisting of plants and fungi, which have a wide range of alkaloids, responsible for causing relaxing, stimulating or hallucinogenic effects. The consumption of some of these substances is prompted by religious beliefs and cultural reasons, making the legislation very variable or even ambiguous. However, the abusive consumption of these substances can present an enormous risk to the health of the individuals, since their metabolism and effects are not yet fully known. Additionally, NPSs are widely spread over the internet, and their appearance is very fast, which requires the development of sophisticated analytical methodologies, capable of detecting these compounds. Thus, the objective of this work is to review the toxicological aspects, traditional use/therapeutic potential and the analytical methods developed in biological matrices in twelve plant specimens (Areca catechu, Argyreia nervosa, Ayahuasca, Catha edulis, Datura stramonium, Lophophora williamsii, Mandragora officinarum, Mitragyna speciosa, Piper methysticum Forst, Psilocybe, Salvia divinorum and Tabernanthe iboga).
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Majer, Réka, Olar Adeyi, Zsuzsa Bagoly, Viktória Simon, László Csiba, László Kardos, Tibor Hortobágyi, and Ede Frecska. "Neuropsychiatric symptoms, quality of life and caregivers’ burden in dementia." Open Medicine 15, no. 1 (September 14, 2020): 905–14. http://dx.doi.org/10.1515/med-2020-0124.
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AbstractThe objective of this research is to identify the relationship between the neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) of patients with major neurocognitive disorder (mNCD), their quality of life, illness intrusiveness and the caregiver’s burden. We assessed 131 patients with mNCD. Examination methods included WHO well-being index short version, illness intrusiveness rating scale, Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cog, Mini Mental State Examination and neuropsychiatric inventory. The results were analysed using standard statistical tests. In our sample, the prevalence of NPSs is 100%. A significant correlation (p < 0.0001) was observed with quality of life and illness intrusiveness. Additionally, a strong relationship was observed between NPSs and the caregiver’s burden (r = 0.9). The result is significantly twice as much stronger in comparison to the relationship between NPS and cognitive symptoms (r = 0.4). This is the first study in Hungary to assess the impact of NPS on the burden of relatives and quality of life. NPS had twice stronger impact on caregivers’ burden than cognitive decline. However, further studies are needed to assess the sub-syndromes in mNCD in relation to NPS.
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Valotassiou, Varvara, Nikolaos Sifakis, Chara Tzavara, Evi Lykou, Niki Tsinia, Vasiliki Kamtsadeli, Dimitra Sali, et al. "Correlation of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Dementia with Brain Perfusion: A 99mTc-SPECT-HMPAO Study with Brodmann Areas Analysis." Current Alzheimer Research 18, no. 12 (December 27, 2021): 970–83. http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1567205019666211220130505.
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Background: Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) are common in dementia. Their evaluation is based on Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI). Neuroimaging studies have tried to elucidate the underlying neural circuits either in isolated NPSs or in specific forms of dementia. Objective: : The objective of this study is to evaluate the correlation of NPS in the NPI with Brodmann areas (BAs) perfusion, for revealing BAs involved in the pathogenesis of NPSs in dementia of various etiologies. Method: We studied 201 patients (82 with Alzheimer's disease, 75 with Frontotemporal dementia, 27 with Corticobasal Syndrome, 17 with Parkinson Disease/Lewy Body Dementia). Exploratory factor analysis was carried out to evaluate underlying groups of BAs, and Principal Component analysis was chosen as extraction method using Varimax rotation. Partial correlation coefficients were computed to explore the association of factors obtained from analysis and NPI items controlling for age, educational yeas, and ACE-R. Results: We found 6 BAs Factors(F); F1 (BAs 8,9,10,11,24,32,44,45,46,47, bilaterally), F2 (Bas 4,5,6,7,23,31, bilaterally), F3 (BAs 19,21,22,37,39,40, bilaterally), F4 (BAs 20,28,36,38, bilaterally), F5 (BAs 25, bilaterally) and F6 (BAs 17,18, bilaterally). Significant and negative correlation was found between NPI1 (delusions) and F3,F6, NPI2 (hallucinations) and F6, NPI7 (apathy) and F1,F4,F5, NPI3 (agitation) - NPI10 (aberrant motor behavior) - NPI12 (eating disorders) and F1. We did not find any significant correlation for NPI4,5,6,8,9,11 (depression, anxiety, euphoria, disinhibition, irritability, sleep disorders, respectively). Conclusion: Several NPSs share the same BAs among different types of dementia, while the manifestation of the rest may be attributed to different neural networks. These findings may have an impact on patients’ treatment.
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Li, Yu, Shuo Chen, Wenqiang Ye, and Fujiang Lin. "A Joint Low-Power Cell Search and Frequency Tracking Scheme in NB-IoT Systems for Green Internet of Things." Sensors 18, no. 10 (September 29, 2018): 3274. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/s18103274.
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As a dedicated communication protocol for Internet-of-Things, narrowband internet of things (NB-IoT) needs to establish the communication link rapidly and reduce retransmissions as much as possible to achieve low power consumption and stable performance. To achieve these targets, the low-power scheme of the initial cell search and frequency tracking is investigated in this paper. The cell search process can be subdivided into narrowband primary synchronization signal (NPSS) detection and narrowband secondary synchronization signal (NSSS) detection. We present an NPSS detection method whose timing metric is composed of symbol-wise autocorrelation and a dedicated normalization factor. After the detection of NPSS, the symbol timing and fractional frequency offset estimation is implemented in a resource-efficient way. NSSS detection is conducted in the frequency domain with a calculation-reduced algorithm based on the features of NSSS sequences. To compensate the accumulated frequency offset during uplink transmission, a pilot-aided rapid frequency tracking algorithm is proposed. The simulation results of the proposed cell search scheme are outstanding in both normal coverage and extended coverage NB-IoT scenarios, and the accumulated frequency offset can be estimated with high efficiency.
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Lee, Eun Jin, Han-Sung Kim, Hyun Soo Kim, Jae-Seok Kim, Wonkeun Song, MiYoung Kim, Young Kyung Lee, and Hee Jung Kang. "Human Bocavirus in Korean Children with Gastroenteritis and Respiratory Tract Infections." BioMed Research International 2016 (2016): 1–5. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2016/7507895.
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Human bocaviruses (HBoVs) are suggested to be etiologic agents of childhood respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. There are four main recognized genotypes of HBoVs (HBoV1–4); the HBoV-1 genotype is considered to be the primary etiologic agent in respiratory infections, whereas the HBoV2–4 genotypes have been mainly associated with gastrointestinal infections. The aim of the present study was to determine the distribution of HBoV genotypes in children with respiratory or gastrointestinal infections in a hospital in Korea. A total of 662 nasopharyngeal swabs (NPSs) and 155 fecal specimens were collected from children aged 5 years or less. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was conducted to detect theNS1HBoV gene. TheVP1gene of HBoV was further amplified in samples that were positive for theNS1gene. The PCR products ofVP1gene amplification were genotyped by sequence analysis. HBoV was detected in 69 (14.5%) of 662 NPSs and in 10 (6.5%) of 155 fecal specimens. Thirty-three isolates from NPSs and five isolates from fecal specimens were genotyped, and all 38 sequenced isolates were identified as the HBoV-1 genotype. HBoV-1 is the most prevalent genotype in children with respiratory or gastrointestinal HBoV infections in a hospital in Korea.
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Chen, Yifan, Zhizhong Chen, Junze Li, Yiyong Chen, Chengcheng Li, Jinglin Zhan, Tongjun Yu, et al. "A study of GaN nucleation and coalescence in the initial growth stages on nanoscale patterned sapphire substrates via MOCVD." CrystEngComm 20, no. 42 (2018): 6811–20. http://dx.doi.org/10.1039/c8ce01450g.
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Agosta, Lucie J. "Psychometric Evaluation of the Nurse Practitioner Satisfaction Survey (NPSS)." Journal of Nursing Measurement 17, no. 2 (August 2009): 114–33. http://dx.doi.org/10.1891/1061-3749.17.2.114.
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The purpose of this study was to identify and define underlying latent constructs within the concept of patient satisfaction with nurse practitioner delivered primary health care. The Nurse Practitioner Satisfaction Survey (NPSS), a 28-item, Likert-type, researcher developed instrument was completed by 300 clients presenting for primary health care visits in a hospital outpatient clinic. Factor analysis with promax rotation resulted in a three factor model explaining 70.77% of the variance. Eighteen items loaded on general satisfaction. Six items loaded on communication, and four items loaded on accessibility and convenience. Cronbach’s alpha internal consistency reliability coefficients were .98, .83, and .76 for the three factors, respectively. The NPSS was found to be reliable and valid for measuring patient satisfaction with nurse practitioner delivered primary health care services.
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Wang, Xueliang, Yiyang Liu, Miao Shen, Xiaobin Fu, Ling Han, Guohong Ma, Hongtao Liu, and Long Yan. "The investigation of molten ZnCl2 natural particle suspensions." Analytical Methods 12, no. 9 (2020): 1229–36. http://dx.doi.org/10.1039/c9ay02680k.
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Li, J. Z., Z. Z. Chen, Q. Q. Jiao, Y. L. Feng, S. Jiang, Y. F. Chen, T. J. Yu, S. F. Li, and G. Y. Zhang. "Silane controlled three dimensional GaN growth and recovery stages on a cone-shape nanoscale patterned sapphire substrate by MOCVD." CrystEngComm 17, no. 24 (2015): 4469–74. http://dx.doi.org/10.1039/c5ce00476d.
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Mazdai, Leila, Matteo Fabbri, Micaela Tirri, Giorgia Corli, Raffaella Arfè, Beatrice Marchetti, Sabrine Bilel, et al. "Epigenetic Studies for Evaluation of NPS Toxicity: Focus on Synthetic Cannabinoids and Cathinones." Biomedicines 10, no. 6 (June 13, 2022): 1398. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines10061398.
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In the recent decade, numerous new psychoactive substances (NPSs) have been added to the illicit drug market. These are synthetized to mimic the effects of classic drugs of abuse (i.e., cannabis, cocaine, etc.), with the purpose of bypassing substance legislations and increasing the pharmacotoxicological effects. To date, research into the acute pharmacological effects of new NPSs is ongoing and necessary in order to provide an appropriate contribution to public health. In fact, multiple examples of NPS-related acute intoxication and mortality have been recorded in the literature. Accordingly, several in vitro and in vivo studies have investigated the pharmacotoxicological profiles of these compounds, revealing that they can cause adverse effects involving various organ systems (i.e., cardiovascular, respiratory effects) and highlighting their potential increased consumption risks. In this sense, NPSs should be regarded as a complex issue that requires continuous monitoring. Moreover, knowledge of long-term NPS effects is lacking. Because genetic and environmental variables may impact NPS responses, epigenetics may aid in understanding the processes behind the harmful events induced by long-term NPS usage. Taken together, “pharmacoepigenomics” may provide a new field of combined study on genetic differences and epigenetic changes in drug reactions that might be predictive in forensic implications.
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Quirke, Michael, Emma May Curran, Patrick O’Kelly, Ruth Moran, Eimear Daly, Seamus Aylward, Gerry McElvaney, and Abel Wakai. "Risk factors for amendment in type, duration and setting of prescribed outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) for adult patients with cellulitis: a retrospective cohort study and CART analysis." Postgraduate Medical Journal 94, no. 1107 (September 5, 2017): 25–31. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/postgradmedj-2017-134968.
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Purpose of the studyTo measure the percentage rate and risk factors for amendment in the type, duration and setting of outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) for the treatment of cellulitis.Study designA retrospective cohort study of adult patients receiving OPAT for cellulitis was performed. Treatment amendment (TA) was defined as hospital admission or change in antibiotic therapy in order to achieve clinical response. Multivariable logistic regression (MVLR) and classification and regression tree (CART) analysis were performed.ResultsThere were 307 patients enrolled. TA occurred in 36 patients (11.7%). Significant risk factors for TA on MVLR were increased age, increased Numerical Pain Scale Score (NPSS) and immunocompromise. The median OPAT duration was 7 days. Increased age, heart rate and C reactive protein were associated with treatment prolongation. CART analysis selected age <64.5 years, female gender and NPSS <2.5 in the final model, generating a low-sensitivity (27.8%), high-specificity (97.1%) decision tree.ConclusionsIncreased age, NPSS and immunocompromise were associated with OPAT amendment. These identified risk factors can be used to support an evidence-based approach to patient selection for OPAT in cellulitis. The CART algorithm has good specificity but lacks sensitivity and is shown to be inferior in this study to logistic regression modelling.
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Marquié, Marta, Fernando García-Gutiérrez, Adelina Orellana, Laura Montrreal, Itziar de Rojas, Pablo García-González, Raquel Puerta, et al. "The Synergic Effect of AT(N) Profiles and Depression on the Risk of Conversion to Dementia in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment." International Journal of Molecular Sciences 24, no. 2 (January 10, 2023): 1371. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijms24021371.
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Few studies have addressed the impact of the association between Alzheimer´s disease (AD) biomarkers and NPSs in the conversion to dementia in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and no studies have been conducted on the interaction effect of these two risk factors. AT(N) profiles were created using AD-core biomarkers quantified in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) (normal, brain amyloidosis, suspected non-Alzheimer pathology (SNAP) and prodromal AD). NPSs were assessed using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q). A total of 500 individuals with MCI were followed-up yearly in a memory unit. Cox regression analysis was used to determine risk of conversion, considering additive and multiplicative interactions between AT(N) profile and NPSs on the conversion to dementia. A total of 224 participants (44.8%) converted to dementia during the 2-year follow-up study. Pathologic AT(N) groups (brain amyloidosis, prodromal AD and SNAP) and the presence of depression and apathy were associated with a higher risk of conversion to dementia. The additive combination of the AT(N) profile with depression exacerbates the risk of conversion to dementia. A synergic effect of prodromal AD profile with depressive symptoms is evidenced, identifying the most exposed individuals to conversion among MCI patients.
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Piechaczek, Małgorzata, Magdalena Smolik, Sebastian Rojek, and Beata Bystrowska. "Metabolism testing methods as exemplified by selected new psychoactive substances (NPSs)." Problems of Forensic Sciences, no. 126-127 (March 29, 2022): 121–35. http://dx.doi.org/10.4467/12307483pfs.20.007.15447.
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Detailed assessment of the biotransformation of compounds and the activity of their metabolites is an extremely important element in the safety evaluation of a substance, both in preclinical and clinical studies. It should be noted that the metabolite may differ from the parent compound in terms of physicochemical properties and consequently pharmacological and toxicological properties. The purpose of the biotransformation of xenobiotics is to increase their hydrophilicity, which allows excretion in the urine. the metabolites of biotransformation phase I show undesirable pharmacological or toxic effects much more often. according to U.S. Food and Drug administration (FDA) guidance, if a metabolite in the human body accounts for more than 10% of the total amount of metabolites, its safety should be thoroughly assessed. Metabolites can interact more strongly or weakly, or to the same degree, with the same or a different molecular target as the parent compound. they can also display non-specific effects by, for example, damaging macromolecules (e.g. proteins, nucleic acids) in the way that free radicals do. In the case of new psychoactive substances (NPSs), the pharmacological properties, including metabolism, are largely unknown until they are traded illegally and their users begin to appear in departments of toxicology or forensic medicine. It is in this way that the activity profile and probable metabolic pathways of NPSs are determined. to determine the metabolites of NPSs is also an important toxicological skill in the forensic testing of biological samples (blood/urine/tissue) collected from victims, in which metabolites, not parent compounds, are usually found. Using examples from the authors’ research and the available literature, the article aims to present alternative methods of metabolism testing for NPSs. In vitro methods (application of microsomes, S9 fraction, hepatocytes, cytosol) are discussed and comparisons are made between the results of in vivo tests on animals and analyses of autopsy material. The experiments and the literature review demonstrate that by using in vitro methods the metabolism of NPSs can be predicted with high probability. By improving existing methods of metabolism research and creating new and alternative ones it will be possible to better understand metabolic pathways and better identify the NPS metabolites formed in the human body. This will contribute not only to the development of better methods of treating NPS poisoning, but will also be of use when compiling forensic and medical reports for the judiciary.
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Liu, Bin, Shu Jing Li, and Lin Ting Ma. "Generation of Tunable Necklace-Pattern Solitons in Two-Dimensional Dissipative System." Applied Mechanics and Materials 339 (July 2013): 645–50. http://dx.doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amm.339.645.
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We obtain necklace-pattern solitons (NPSs) from the same-pattern initial Gaussian pulse modulated by alternating azimuthal phase sections (AAPSs) of out-phase based on the two-dimensional (2D) complex Ginzburg-Landau equation with the cubic-quintic nonlinearity. The initial radially symmetrical Gaussian pulse can evolves into general necklace-rings solitons (NRSs). The number and distribution of pearls is tunable by adjusting sections-number and sections-distribution of AAPSs. In addition, we study the linear increased relationship between size of initial pulses and ring-radii of NRSs. Moreover, we predict the number-threshold of pearls in theoretical analysis by using of balance equations for energy and momentum. Final, we extend the research results to obtain arbitrary NPSs, such as elliptical ring, triangular-ring, and pentagonal ring.
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Soares-Wynter, Suzanne, Stacey-Ann Aiken-Hemming, Bridget Hollingsworth, Donna R. Miles, and Shu Wen Ng. "Applying Nutrient Profiling Systems to Packaged Foods and Drinks Sold in Jamaica." Foods 9, no. 1 (January 8, 2020): 65. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/foods9010065.
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The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and Chile stage III nutrient profiling systems (NPSs) were applied to packaged beverages/foods sold in Jamaica to: (a) identify products with excess nutrients of concern (NOC) under each NPS; (b) assess differences between these NPS, and (c) discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each NPS when applied to Jamaica’s food supply. Data on 6261 branded multi-ingredient packaged products were collected from the city of Kingston in 2018; of these, 4739 products, comprised of 3423 foods (from 15 food groups) and 1316 beverages (from four beverage groups), provided sufficient information. Products containing excessive NOC under each NPS were identified and the proportions of categories with excess NOC were compared using correlation coefficients. Also assessed were the mean nutrient values among the subset of products exceeding versus not exceeding both NPSs using tests of significance. A larger proportion of packaged beverages and foods exceeds thresholds under PAHO versus Chile Stage III. Additionally, a larger percentage of foods, like fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish and seafood, would be considered as having excess sugar or sodium under PAHO versus Chile. This is the first study in the Caribbean that applies two existing NPSs to packaged products. The results can help to determine an appropriate NPS for use in Jamaica as the basis for food and nutrition policies, to help consumers make improved food choices.
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Shim, Yong S., and Hae-Eun Shin. "Analysis of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease Using Quantitative EEG and sLORETA." Neurodegenerative Diseases 20, no. 1 (2020): 12–19. http://dx.doi.org/10.1159/000508130.
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Objective: The electrocortical activities associated with the neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) were investigated using frequency-domain electroencephalography (EEG) spectral source analysis, and the potential electrocortical indices identified. Materials and Methods: Scalp EEG data were obtained from 51 patients with AD to investigate the presence of four NPS subdomains, hyperactivity, psychosis, affective symptoms, and apathy. EEG power spectra and the standardized low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA)-localized EEG cortical sources were compared between the groups with and without the four NPS subdomains in eight frequency bands: 1–4, 4–8, 8–10, 10–12, 12–18, 18–20, 20–30, and 30–45 Hz. Results: The power spectral analysis of EEG data showed that AD patients with psychosis had lower values at the α2-band in most areas. In patients with apathy, the θ-to-β power ratio showed a greater activity over the frontal and central regions. The cortical source analysis using sLORETA revealed that patients with psychosis showed decreased values in the α2-band and patients with apathy showed higher δ-values, especially in the right frontal and temporal regions. Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that both classical EEG spectral and EEG source analysis could differentiate patients with and without NPSs, especially psychosis and apathy subdomains. Spectral and sLORETA analyses provided information helpful for a better characterization in patients with NPSs.
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Lovrecic, Barbara, Mercedes Lovrecic, Branko Gabrovec, Marco Carli, Matteo Pacini, Angelo G. I. Maremmani, and Icro Maremmani. "Non-Medical Use of Novel Synthetic Opioids: A New Challenge to Public Health." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 16, no. 2 (January 9, 2019): 177. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16020177.
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Background: In the last decade there has been a progressive increase in the use of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) that are not yet under international control. In particular, novel synthetic opioids (NSOs) have reappeared on the recreational drug market in the last few years. As a result, the use of NSOs has increased rapidly. This poses an emerging and demanding challenge to public health. Aim: To raise awareness among clinicians and other professionals about NPSs, especially NSOs, to summarize current knowledge about pharmacological properties, forms of NSO on the market, pattern of use, effects and consequences of use. Methods: An electronic search was carried out on the Medline/PubMed and Google Scholar databases to find selected search terms. Results: Some NPSs are already controlled, while others can be legally sold directly on the drug market (mainly via internet, less so by drug dealers) or be used as precursors for the synthesis of other designer drugs that mimic the psychoactive effects of controlled substances. Potential side-effects of NSOs include miosis, sedation, respiratory depression, hypothermia, inhibition of gastrointestinal propulsion, death (from opioid overdose). Conclusions: The severity of the opioid crisis has intensified with the introduction of highly potent NSOs on the drug market. As long as addicts are dying from overdose or similar causes, there is something more constructive to do than waiting for addicts to overdose on heroin at a place located near a remedy, as if to say, within reach of naloxone.
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Higgins, Kathryn, Nina O’Neill, Leeanne O’Hara, Julie-Ann Jordan, Mark McCann, Tara O’Neill, Mike Clarke, Tony O’Neill, and Anne Campbell. "Evidence for public health on novel psychoactive substance use: a mixed-methods study." Public Health Research 7, no. 14 (August 2019): 1–150. http://dx.doi.org/10.3310/phr07140.
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Background Novel psychoactive substances (NPSs) contribute to the public health impact of substance misuse. This report provides research evidence addressing 11 research questions related to NPSs, covering types, patterns and settings of use; supply sources; and implications for policy and practice. Methods The study used a conceptually linked three-phase mixed-methods design with a shared conceptual framework based on multiple-context risk and protective factors. Phase 1 was a quantitative phase involving secondary data analysis of the longitudinal Belfast Youth Development Study (BYDS), a latent class analysis using the 2039 BYDS participants. Phase 2 was an extensive qualitative analysis via narrative interviews with participants, sampled from BYDS, drug/alcohol services and prisons, to explore NPS use trajectories. Phase 3 was the final quantitative phase; generalisability of the shared risk factor part of the model was tested using the manual three-step approach to examine risk factors associated with latent class membership. The quantitative and qualitative analyses were integrated, thus allowing emerging findings to be further explored. Results The data suggest that NPSs have a place within a range of polydrug use trajectories. Models showed no distinctive NPS class, with no clear evidence of differential risks for NPS use compared with the use of other substances. From the qualitative analysis, a taxonomy of groups was derived that explored how and where NPSs featured in a range of trajectories. This taxonomy was used to structure the analysis of factors linked to use within a risk and protective framework. Drivers for use were considered alongside knowledge, perceptions and experience of harms. Suggestions about how interventions could best respond to the various patterns of use – with special consideration of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), including how they relate to the use of heroin and the potential for NPSs to operate as a ‘snare’ to more problem use – were also presented. Limitations The study was conducted during 2016/17; generalisability beyond this sample and time point is limited. The level of missing data for some of the BYDS analysis was a limitation, as was the fact that the BYDS data were collected in 2011, so in a different context from the data collected during the narrative interviews. The Psychoactive Substances Act 2016 (Great Britain. Psychoactive Substances Act 2016. London: The Stationery Office; 2016) came into force during qualitative fieldwork and, although not particularly influential in this study, may be influential in future work. It is acknowledged that many of the data related to SCs and mephedrone. Although drug use was measured by self-report, the strength of rapport within interviews, reflective diaries and methodological acceptability checks helped to mitigate self-report bias. Conclusions NPSs continue to present significant challenges for legislation and monitoring, researching and developing interventions. Understanding of usage patterns remains poor, with most information based on populations and settings where problems have already occurred. This research contributes to the evidence base by providing much needed further empirical data on the lived experiences of NPS users across a range of settings. In the light of these data, implications for policy and practice are discussed. Future work Future research must generate improved epidemiological data on the extent, patterns and motivations for use longitudinally. The uniqueness of the information concerning SC use points to a specific set of findings not evidenced in other literature (e.g. intensity of SC withdrawal). Future research should focus on the symbiotic link between SC and heroin use. Funding The National Institute for Health Research Public Health Research programme.
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Chung, Heesun, Jaesin Lee, and Eunmi Kim. "Trends of novel psychoactive substances (NPSs) and their fatal cases." Forensic Toxicology 34, no. 1 (August 11, 2015): 1–11. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11419-015-0286-5.
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Ahmed, Sahar I., Aqeel Sh Al-Adili, and Awham M. Hameed. "The effect of dosage nanosilica and the particle size of porcelanite aggregate concrete on mechanical and microstructure properties." Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Materials 31, no. 1 (January 1, 2022): 573–79. http://dx.doi.org/10.1515/jmbm-2022-0062.
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Abstract Several research studies have been conducted on the usage of nanoscale silica particles in concrete, based on the success of employing silica fume as an active pozzolan in concrete. The impact of several doses of nanosilicas (NpSs) in powder having a certain surface area of 160 m2/g and two particle sizes of porcelanite rock on the mechanical characteristics of lightweight porcelanite aggregate concrete was investigated. The addition of NpS particles significantly improved the workability of mixes, according to the results. The compressive strength of samples was influenced by NpS, with higher doses of NpS resulting in greater improvement. Porcelanite aggregate concrete’s compressive strength was unaffected by a modest percentage of different NpSs. NpS had an effect on the samples. Flexural strength also improved at all NpS dosages. The flexural strength of porcelanite aggregate concrete increased by a low percentage of various NpS.
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Tao, Ye, Matthew E. Peters, Lea T. Drye, Davangere P. Devanand, Jacobo E. Mintzer, Bruce G. Pollock, Anton P. Porsteinsson, et al. "Sex Differences in the Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Patients With Alzheimer’s Disease." American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease & Other Dementiasr 33, no. 7 (July 3, 2018): 450–57. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1533317518783278.
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The aim of this study was to describe sex differences in neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Baseline scores on the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory, Neurobehavioral Rating Scale–Agitation subscale, and the Neuropsychiatric Inventory from patients with AD enrolled in a multicenter trial of citalopram for the treatment of agitation were analyzed. We found not only that patients with AD having agitation were likely to exhibit many other NPSs but also that the women in this study were more likely to exhibit a broader range of NPS than were the men. These results suggest greater heterogeneity in the clinical presentation of women compared to men, and thus in the potential targets for treatment in these patients. Further characterization of sex differences in NPS can inform future efforts aimed at establishing subtypes of patients for whom various treatment approaches will be most appropriate.
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Ilik, Faik, Hüseyin Büyükgöl, Fatih Kayhan, Devrimsel Harika Ertem, and Timur Ekiz. "Effects of Inappropriate Sexual Behaviors and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Patients With Alzheimer Disease and Caregivers’ Depression on Caregiver Burden." Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neurology 33, no. 5 (September 16, 2019): 243–49. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0891988719874123.
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Objective: We investigated the effects of inappropriate sexual behaviors (ISBs) and neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) of patients with Alzheimer disease (AD), and of caregivers’ depression, on the caregiver burden. Method: One hundred forty three patients with AD and their caregivers were included in the study. Sixty-five patients without AD who needed care due to their disability and their caregivers were enrolled for the comparison. Depression in caregivers was diagnosed using The Structured Clinical Interview for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (SCID-I). The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Clinical Dementia Rating Scale were used to evaluate the severity of AD. The Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) was used to assess the NPSs of patients. Caregiver burden was evaluated using the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI). Results: Inappropriate sexual behaviors were found in 13 (9.1%) of the AD group. Inappropriate sexual behaviors were more common in moderate or severe AD ( P = .009, χ2 = 9.396). The prevalence of depression (n = 38, 26.6%) was higher in caregivers of AD group with ISBs ( P = .000, χ2 = 24.69). The ZBI scores of caregivers of patients with AD were higher than the comparison group. In addition, the ZBI scores of caregivers of patients with AD were significantly higher in the AD group with ISB, a high total score of NPI, and a low score of MMSE. The caregivers of AD group with depression had higher ZBI scores ( P < .05). Conclusions: The severity of AD, the presence of NPSs in patients, and major depression in caregivers were risk factors for an increased caregiver burden.
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Washburn, Rachel, Gurvinder Kaur, and Jannette Dufour. "Xenogeneic Sertoli cells express complement inhibitory proteins necessary for their survival of hyperacute rejection." Journal of Immunology 206, no. 1_Supplement (May 1, 2021): 28.14. http://dx.doi.org/10.4049/jimmunol.206.supp.28.14.
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Abstract Transplantation is used to treat organ failure associated with various diseases, however there is a severe shortage of organs acceptable for transplant. Utilization of pig organs offers an endless supply of transplantable tissue, but xenografts are rapidly destroyed by hyperacute rejection (HAR). The primary humoral mediator of HAR is the activation of complement (C″) by preformed-antibody binding to xenoantigens, causing a proteolytic cascade that results in cell lysis by membrane attack complex (MAC) insertion. Sertoli cells (SCs) are immunoregulatory testicular cells that survive as xenografts for an extended period without the use of immunosuppressive drugs. The goal of this study was to examine the mechanisms for SC survival of C″. Neonatal porcine SCs (NPSCs) transplanted into rats survived as xenografts while porcine islets (NPIs) did not. Immunohistochemistry of the surviving grafts show deposited C3, but not MAC, suggesting that NPSCs inhibit C″ after activation. An in vitro human serum (HS)-C″ cytotoxicity assay confirmed that NPSCs survive activated human C″. Analysis of NPSC expression of complement inhibitory proteins (CIP) revealed higher levels of membrane cofactor protein (MCP) and decay accelerating factor (DAF) as compared to NPIs, which are killed by C″. Knocking down expression of MCP and DAF using shRNA confirmed their importance in NPSC survival of C″. Less than 10% of these cells survived exposure to the HS-C″ cytotoxicity assay, indicating MCP and DAF are important in NPSC xenograft survival in vitro.
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Fry, Edward W. S., Sophie Triantaphillidou, Robin B. Jenkin, Ralph E. Jacobson, and John R. Jarvis. "Scene-and-Process-Dependent Spatial Image Quality Metrics." Journal of Imaging Science and Technology 63, no. 6 (November 1, 2019): 60407–1. http://dx.doi.org/10.2352/j.imagingsci.technol.2019.63.6.060407.
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Abstract Spatial image quality metrics designed for camera systems generally employ the Modulation Transfer Function (MTF), the Noise Power Spectrum (NPS) and a visual contrast detection model. Prior art indicates that scene-dependent characteristics of non-linear, content-aware image processing are unaccounted for by MTFs and NPSs measured by traditional methods. The authors present two novel metrics: the log Noise Equivalent Quanta (log NEQ) and Visual log NEQ. They both employ Scene-and-Process-Dependent MTF (SPD-MTF) and NPS (SPD-NPS) measures, which account for signal transfer and noise scene dependency, respectively. The authors also investigate implementing contrast detection and discrimination models that account for scene-dependent visual masking. Also, three leading camera metrics are revised to use the above scene-dependent measures. All metrics are validated by examining correlations with the perceived quality of images produced by simulated camera pipelines. Metric accuracy improved consistently when the SPD-MTFs and SPD-NPSs were implemented. The novel metrics outperformed existing metrics of the same genre.
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Kong, Fanchang, Yan Zhang, Zhiqi You, Cuiying Fan, Yuan Tian, and Zongkui Zhou. "Body Dissatisfaction and Restrained Eating: Mediating Effects of Self-Esteem." Social Behavior and Personality: an international journal 41, no. 7 (August 1, 2013): 1165–70. http://dx.doi.org/10.2224/sbp.2013.41.7.1165.
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Mixed results have been found in studies of the relationship between body dissatisfaction and restrained eating, and self-esteem (Flament et al., 2012; Forrester-Knauss, Perren, & Alsaker, 2012; Wilksch & Wade, 2004). We investigated if body dissatisfaction significantly predicted restrained eating and if restrained eating was affected by body dissatisfaction through the mediation of self-esteem. The Negative Physical Self Scale-Fatness Scale (NPSS-F; Chen, Jackson, & Huang, 2006), the State Self-Esteem Scale (SSES; Heatherton & Polivy, 1991), and the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire-Revised 18-item version (TFEQ-R18; Karlsson, Persson, Sjöström, & Sullivan, 2000) were administered to 376 Chinese women undergraduates. Results showed that body dissatisfaction, as measured with the NPSS-F, was positively related to restrained eating, and self-esteem mediated in the relationship between body dissatisfaction and restrained eating. Therefore, restrained eating was affected not only directly by body dissatisfaction, but also indirectly by body dissatisfaction through the mediation of self-esteem.
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Wang, Shigang, Bartley P. Griffith, and Zhongjun J. Wu. "Device-Induced Hemostatic Disorders in Mechanically Assisted Circulation." Clinical and Applied Thrombosis/Hemostasis 27 (January 1, 2021): 107602962098237. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1076029620982374.
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Mechanically assisted circulation (MAC) sustains the blood circulation in the body of a patients undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) or on ventricular assistance with a ventricular assist device (VAD) or on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) with a pump-oxygenator system. While MAC provides short-term (days to weeks) support and long-term (months to years) for the heart and/or lungs, the blood is inevitably exposed to non-physiological shear stress (NPSS) due to mechanical pumping action and in contact with artificial surfaces. NPSS is well known to cause blood damage and functional alterations of blood cells. In this review, we discussed shear-induced platelet adhesion, platelet aggregation, platelet receptor shedding, and platelet apoptosis, shear-induced acquired von Willebrand syndrome (AVWS), shear-induced hemolysis and microparticle formation during MAC. These alterations are associated with perioperative bleeding and thrombotic events, morbidity and mortality, and quality of life in MCS patients. Understanding the mechanism of shear-induce hemostatic disorders will help us develop low-shear-stress devices and select more effective treatments for better clinical outcomes.
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Maniquiz, Marla C., Soyoung Lee, Eunju Lee, and Lee-Hyung Kim. "Development of statistical linear regression model for metals from transportation land uses." Water Science and Technology 59, no. 12 (June 1, 2009): 2495–501. http://dx.doi.org/10.2166/wst.2009.247.
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The transportation landuses possessing impervious surfaces such as highways, parking lots, roads, and bridges were recognized as the highly polluted non-point sources (NPSs) in the urban areas. Lots of pollutants from urban transportation are accumulating on the paved surfaces during dry periods and are washed-off during a storm. In Korea, the identification and monitoring of NPSs still represent a great challenge. Since 2004, the Ministry of Environment (MOE) has been engaged in several researches and monitoring to develop stormwater management policies and treatment systems for future implementation. The data over 131 storm events during May 2004 to September 2008 at eleven sites were analyzed to identify correlation relationships between particulates and metals, and to develop simple linear regression (SLR) model to estimate event mean concentration (EMC). Results indicate that there was no significant relationship between metals and TSS EMC. However, the SLR estimation models although not providing useful results are valuable indicators of high uncertainties that NPS pollution possess. Therefore, long term monitoring employing proper methods and precise statistical analysis of the data should be undertaken to eliminate these uncertainties.
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Wang, Ruizhou, and Heng Wu. "Design and Performance of a Spatial 6-RRRR Compliant Parallel Nanopositioning Stage." Micromachines 13, no. 11 (November 1, 2022): 1889. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/mi13111889.
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Piezoelectric actuators (PEAs) and compliant parallel mechanisms (CPMs) are advantageous for designing nanopositioning stages (NPSs) with multiple degrees of freedom (multi-DOFs). This paper proposes a new NPS that uses PEAs and CPMs with multiple spatial DOFs. First, the design of the mechanism is introduced. Six parallel kinematics revolute-revolute-revolute-revolute (RRRR) branched chains were used to create a 6-RRRR CPM for superior mechanical performance. Three in-plane and three out-of-plane chains were combined using a two-in-one structure to ensure fabrication feasibility. A two-in-one 6-RRRR CPM was employed to build the proposed NPS. Second, the mechanical performance was analyzed. High-efficiency finite-element modeling approaches were derived using the compliance-based matrix method (CMM) and a pseudo-rigid body model (PRBM). The model included both 6-RRRR CPM and NPS. The simulation results validated the static and dynamic performance, and the experimental results verified the kinematics. Based on the newly designed mechanism and verified mechanical performance, the proposed 6-RRRR NPS contributes to the development of spatial multi-DOF NPSs using PEAs and CPMs.
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Li, Biaomin, Shihong Xia, Wei Guo, Zhenhai Yang, Yuheng Zeng, Zhizhong Yuan, and Jichun Ye. "Promoting Light Extraction Efficiency of Ultraviolet Light Emitting Diodes by Nanostructure Optimization." Crystals 12, no. 11 (November 10, 2022): 1601. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/cryst12111601.
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Ultraviolet (UV) light-emitting diodes (LEDs), as one of the more promising optoelectronic devices, are intrinsically limited by poor light extraction efficiencies (LEEs). To unlock the full potential of UV-LEDs, we propose a simple and effective strategy to promote the LEEs of UV-LEDs by screening and tailoring suitable optical structures/designs through rigorous numerical simulations. The photonic crystals (PCs) and/or nano-patterned sapphire substrates (NPSSs) equipped with the nano-pillar, nano-cone, nano-oval, and their derivates, are particularly investigated. The simulated results show that individual PC with an average transmittance of 28% is more efficient than that of individual NPSS (24.8%). By coupling PC and NPSS structures, a higher LEE with an average transmittance approaching 29% is obtained, much higher than that of the flat one (23.6%). The involved mechanisms are clarified and confirm that the promotion of optical performance of the nanostructured devices should be attributed to the widened response angles (from 0 to 60°), rather than the enhanced transmittances in the small angles within 30°.
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Tognon, Gianluca, Belen Beltramo, Rutger Schilpzand, Lauren Lissner, Annet J. C. Roodenburg, Rokiah Don, Krishnapillai Madhavan Nair, Ngozi Nnam, Bruce Hamaker, and Herbert Smorenburg. "Development of the Choices 5-Level Criteria to Support Multiple Food System Actions." Nutrients 13, no. 12 (December 16, 2021): 4509. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/nu13124509.
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In 2008, the Choices International Foundation developed its logo criteria, identifying best-in-class food products. More advanced, global and graded nutrient profiling systems (NPSs) are needed to substantiate different national nutrition policies. The objective of this work was to extend Choices NPS to identify five levels of the healthiness of food products, so that the Choices NPS can also be used to support other nutrition policies, next to front-of-pack labelling. Based on the same principles as the previous logo criteria, four sets of threshold criteria were determined using a combination of compliance levels, calculated from a large international food group-specific database, the Choices logo criteria, and WHO-NPSs developed to restrict marketing to children. Validation consisted of a comparison with indicator foods from food-based dietary guidelines from various countries. Some thresholds were adjusted after the validation, e.g., because intermediate thresholds were too lenient. This resulted in a new international NPS that can be applied to different contexts and to support a variety of health policies, to prevent both undernutrition and obesity. It can efficiently evaluate mixed food products and represents a flexible tool, applicable in various settings and populations.
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Awuchi, Chinaza Godswill, Maduabuchi Patrick Aja, Nancy Bonareri Mitaki, Sonia Morya, Ikechukwu O. Amagwula, Chinelo Kate Echeta, and Victory S. Igwe. "New Psychoactive Substances: Major Groups, Laboratory Testing Challenges, Public Health Concerns, and Community-Based Solutions." Journal of Chemistry 2023 (February 2, 2023): 1–36. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2023/5852315.
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Across communities worldwide, various new psychoactive substances (NPSs) continue to emerge, which worsens the challenges to global mental health, drug rules, and public health risks, as well as combats their usage. Specifically, the vast number of NPSs that are currently available, coupled with the rate at which new ones emerge worldwide, increasingly challenges both forensic and clinical testing strategies. The well-established NPS detection techniques include immunoassays, colorimetric tests, mass spectrometric techniques, chromatographic techniques, and hyphenated types. Nonetheless, mitigating drug abuse and NPS usage is achievable through extensive community-based initiatives, with increased focus on harm reduction. Clinically validated and reliable testing of NPS from human samples, along with community-driven solution, such as harm reduction, will be of great importance, especially in combating their prevalence and the use of other illicit synthetic substances. There is a need for continued literature synthesis to reiterate the importance of NPS, given the continuous emergence of illicit substances in the recent years. All these are discussed in this overview, as we performed another look into NPS, from differentiating the major groups and identifying with laboratory testing challenges to community-based initiatives.