bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unsteady flow behaviors and noise source identification of a ducted orifice using detached-eddy simulation
Authors: Li Fuqi , Wang Peng , Liu Yingzheng
Published: August 2022

In the present study, turbulent flow through a ducted orifice is numerically modeled using dynamic delayed detached-eddy simulations (dynamic delayed detached-eddy simulation) to clarify their unsteady flow behaviors and noise generation mechanisms. To this end, a total of four orifices with different thickness-to-diameter ratios (t/d = 0.5, 2, and 4) and porosities (orifice hole area to pipe area ratio, β= 20% and 31%) were chosen for comparison at a Reynolds number of 10 000. Characteristics of the unsteady turbulent flow are first examined in terms of time-mean and statistical flow quantities as well as wall pressure fluctuations. Subsequently, the coherent flow structures in the form of wavepackets are effectively evaluated through spectral proper orthogonal decomposition (SPOD) analysis. The main noise sources are identified as alternatively energetic acoustic dipoles on the orifice's leading and trailing faces, dominated by the intermittent interaction between the unsteady flow and the orifice plate, particularly at the inner edges. Comparisons of different orifice thicknesses at the same porosity (β = 31%) showed that the noise source in the thin configuration (t/d = 0.5) is alternatively dominated by the shedding and flapping behaviors of the vortical structures in the low-frequency range, while Kelvin–Helmholtz-type wavepackets result from the Kelvin–Helmholtz shear layer instability at higher frequencies. For thicker configurations (t/d = 2 and 4), reattachment of the separated shear layer occurs within the orifice throat region; the resultant SPOD modes reveal double-wavepacket structures issuing from the leading and trailing edges, with distinctly different behaviors captured at higher frequencies. Furthermore, for the thin orifice (t/d = 0.5), similar flow structures are found with different porosities (β= 20% and 31%), with intensified noise levels observed at the lower porosity.
Effect of flow structure frequency on flow separation control using dielectric barrier discharge actuator
Authors: Geng Xi , Sun Zhikun , Li Zheng , Shi Zhiwei , Cheng Keming , Khoo B. C.
Published: August 2022

A better understanding of the mechanism of flow separation suppression by a dielectric barrier discharge is essential for flow control. This paper investigates the mechanism of improving the aerodynamic performance of the airfoil by dielectric barrier discharge when the Reynolds number is in the range of 6 × 104–4 × 105. The results show that the disturbance of the gas discharge to the flow field will form a new flow structure. The fluctuating frequency of the new flow structure determines the ability of the plasma actuator to suppress flow separation. This investigation improves and develops the mechanism of plasma flow control.
The EEG multiverse of schizophrenia
Authors: Gordillo Dario , da Cruz Janir Ramos , Chkonia Eka , Lin Wei-Hsiang , Favrod Ophélie , Brand Andreas , Figueiredo Patrícia , Roinishvili Maya , Herzog Michael H
Published: August 2022

Research on schizophrenia typically focuses on one paradigm for which clear-cut differences between patients and controls are established. Great efforts are made to understand the underlying genetical, neurophysiological, and cognitive mechanisms, which eventually may explain the clinical outcome. One tacit assumption of these “deep rooting” approaches is that paradigms tap into common and representative aspects of the disorder. Here, we analyzed the resting-state electroencephalogram (EEG) of 121 schizophrenia patients and 75 controls. Using multiple signal processing methods, we extracted 194 EEG features. Sixty-nine out of the 194 EEG features showed a significant difference between patients and controls, indicating that these features detect an important aspect of schizophrenia. Surprisingly, the correlations between these features were very low. We discuss several explanations to our results and propose that complementing “deep” with “shallow” rooting approaches might help in understanding the underlying mechanisms of the disorder.
Functional brain activity is highly associated with cortical myelination in neonates
Authors: Huang Ziyi , Gao Wenjian , Wu Zhengwang , Li Gang , Nie Jingxin
Published: August 2022

Functional organization of the human cerebral cortex is highly constrained by underlying brain structures, but how functional activity is associated with different brain structures during development is not clear, especially at the neonatal stage. Since long-range functional connectivity is far from mature in the dynamically developing neonatal brain, it is of great scientific significance to investigate the relationship between different structural and functional features at the local level. To this end, for the first time, correlation and regression analyses were performed to examine the relationship between cortical morphology, cortical myelination, age, and local brain functional activity, as well as functional connectivity strength using high-resolution structural and resting-state functional MRI data of 177 neonates (29–44 postmenopausal weeks, 98 male and 79 female) from both static and dynamic perspectives. We found that cortical myelination was most strongly associated with local brain functional activity across the cerebral cortex than other cortical structural features while controlling the age effect. These findings suggest the crucial role of cortical myelination in local brain functional development at birth, providing valuable insights into the fundamental biological basis of functional activity at this early developmental stage.
Abnormal dynamic reconfiguration of the large-scale functional network in schizophrenia during the episodic memory task
Authors: Wang Bin , Pan Tingting , Guo Min , Li Zhifeng , Yu Xuexue , Li Dandan , Niu Yan , Cui Xiaohong , Xiang Jie
Published: August 2022

Episodic memory deficits are the core feature in schizophrenia (SCZ). Numerous studies have revealed abnormal brain activity associated with this disorder during episodic memory, however previous work has only relied on static analysis methods that treat the brain as a static monolithic structure, ignoring the dynamic features at different time scales. Here, we applied dynamic functional connectivity analysis to functional magnetic resonance imaging data during episodic memory and quantify integration and recruitment metrics to reveal abnormal dynamic reconfiguration of brain networks in SCZ. In the specific frequency band of 0.06–0.125 Hz, SCZ showed significantly higher integration during encoding and retrieval, and the abnormalities were mainly in the default mode, frontoparietal, and cingulo-opercular modules. Recruitment of SCZ was significantly higher during retrieval, mainly in the visual module. Interestingly, interactions between groups and task status in recruitment were found in the dorsal attention, visual modules. Finally, we observed that integration was significantly associated with memory performance in frontoparietal regions. Our findings revealed the time-varying evolution of brain networks in SCZ, while improving our understanding of cognitive decline and other pathophysiologies in brain diseases.
Sncg,Mybpc1, andParm1Classify subpopulations of VIP-expressing interneurons in layers 2/3 of the somatosensory cortex
Authors: Jiang Shao-Na , Cao Jun-Wei , Liu Lin-Yun , Zhou Ying , Shan Guang-Yao , Fu Ying-Hui , Shao Yun-Chao , Yu Yong-Chun
Published: August 2022

Neocortical vasoactive intestinal polypeptide-expressing (VIP+) interneurons display highly diverse morpho-electrophysiological and molecular properties. To begin to understand the function of VIP+ interneurons in cortical circuits, they must be clearly and comprehensively classified into distinct subpopulations based on specific molecular markers. Here, we utilized patch-clamp RT-PCR (Patch-PCR) to simultaneously obtain the morpho-electric properties and mRNA profiles of 155 VIP+ interneurons in layers 2 and 3 (L2/3) of the mouse somatosensory cortex. Using an unsupervised clustering method, we identified 3 electrophysiological types (E-types) and 2 morphological types (M-types) of VIP+ interneurons. Joint clustering based on the combined electrophysiological and morphological features resulted in 3 morpho-electric types (ME-types). More importantly, we found these 3 ME-types expressed distinct marker genes: ~94% of Sncg+ cells were ME-type 1, 100% of Mybpc1+ cells were ME-type 2, and ~78% of Parm1+ were ME-type 3. By clarifying the properties of subpopulations of cortical L2/3 VIP+ interneurons, this study establishes a basis for future investigations aiming to elucidate their physiological roles.
Last year of life of adults with congenital heart diseases: causes of death and patterns of care
Authors: Van Bulck Liesbet , Goossens Eva , Morin Lucas , Luyckx Koen , Ombelet Fouke , Willems Ruben , Budts Werner , De Groote Katya , De Backer Julie , Annemans Lieven , Moniotte Stéphane , de Hosson Michèle , Marelli Arianne , Moons Philip ,   BELCODAC consortium
Published: August 2022

Aims

Although life expectancy in adults with congenital heart diseases (CHD) has increased dramatically over the past five decades, still a substantial number of patients dies prematurely. To gain understanding in the trajectories of dying in adults with CHD, the last year of life warrants further investigation. Therefore, our study aimed to (i) define the causes of death and (ii) describe the patterns of healthcare utilization in the last year of life of adults with CHD.

Methods and results

This retrospective mortality follow-back study used healthcare claims and clinical data from BELCODAC, which includes patients with CHD from Belgium. Healthcare utilization comprises cardiovascular procedures, CHD physician contacts, general practitioner visits, hospitalizations, emergency department (ED) visits, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, and specialist palliative care, and was identified using nomenclature codes. Of the 390 included patients, almost half of the study population (45%) died from a cardiovascular cause. In the last year of life, 87% of patients were hospitalized, 78% of patients had an ED visit, and 19% of patients had an ICU admission. Specialist palliative care was provided to 17% of patients, and to only 4% when looking at the patients with cardiovascular causes of death.

Conclusions

There is a high use of intensive and potentially avoidable care at the end of life. This may imply that end-of-life care provision can be improved. Future studies should further examine end-of-life care provision in the light of patient’s needs and preferences, and how the healthcare system can adequately respond.
Device-related complications in subcutaneous versus transvenous ICD: a secondary analysis of the PRAETORIAN trial
Authors: Knops Reinoud E , Pepplinkhuizen Shari , Delnoy Peter Paul H M , Boersma Lucas V A , Kuschyk Juergen , El-Chami Mikhael F , Bonnemeier Hendrik , Behr Elijah R , Brouwer Tom F , Kaab Stefan , Mittal Suneet , Quast Anne-Floor B E , van der Stuijt Willeke , Smeding Lonneke , de Veld Jolien A , Tijssen Jan G P , Bijsterveld Nick R , Richter Sergio , Brouwer Marc A , de Groot Joris R , Kooiman Kirsten M , Lambiase Pier D , Neuzil Petr , Vernooy Kevin , Alings Marco , Betts Timothy R , Bracke Frank A L E , Burke Martin C , de Jong Jonas S S G , Wright David J , Jansen Ward P J , Whinnett Zachary I , Nordbeck Peter , Knaut Michael , Philbert Berit T , van Opstal Jurren M , Chicos Alexandru B , Allaart Cornelis P , Borger van der Burg Alida E , Dizon Jose M , Miller Marc A , Nemirovsky Dmitry , Surber Ralf , Upadhyay Gaurav A , Weiss Raul , de Weger Anouk , Wilde Arthur A M , Olde Nordkamp Louise R A
Published: August 2022

Background

The subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (S-ICD) is developed to overcome lead-related complications and systemic infections, inherent to transvenous ICD (TV-ICD) therapy. The PRAETORIAN trial demonstrated that the S-ICD is non-inferior to the TV-ICD with regard to the combined primary endpoint of inappropriate shocks and complications. This prespecified secondary analysis evaluates all complications in the PRAETORIAN trial.

Methods and results

The PRAETORIAN trial is an international, multicentre, randomized trial in which 849 patients with an indication for ICD therapy were randomized to receive an S- ICD (N = 426) or TV-ICD (N = 423) and followed for a median of 49 months. Endpoints were device-related complications, lead-related complications, systemic infections, and the need for invasive interventions. Thirty-six device-related complications occurred in 31 patients in the S-ICD group of which bleedings were the most frequent. In the TV-ICD group, 49 complications occurred in 44 patients of which lead dysfunction was most frequent (HR: 0.69; P = 0.11). In both groups, half of all complications were within 30 days after implantation. Lead-related complications and systemic infections occurred significantly less in the S-ICD group compared with the TV-ICD group (P < 0.001, P = 0.03, respectively). Significantly more complications required invasive interventions in the TV-ICD group compared with the S-ICD group (8.3% vs. 4.3%, HR: 0.59; P = 0.047).

Conclusion

This secondary analysis shows that lead-related complications and systemic infections are more prevalent in the TV-ICD group compared with the S-ICD group. In addition, complications in the TV-ICD group were more severe as they required significantly more invasive interventions. This data contributes to shared decision-making in clinical practice.
Management of mushroom resources in Spanish forests: a review
Authors: Domínguez-Núñez José Alfonso , Oliet Juan A
Published: August 2022

Mycological resources have attracted considerable interest from the public recently. In this context, forest mycological management of wild mushrooms has emerged a research field and is developing rapidly with the objective to sustainably use and conserve mushrooms in multifunctional forests. Although the term ‘mycosilviculture’ was coined relatively recently, forest management of mycological resources and fungal silviculture began already in the 1980s. This study reviews the literature on the forest management of wild mycological resources with emphasis on studies in Spanish Mediterranean forests. The review covers some of the most important aspects of management, such as the diagnosis of mycological resources through inventory and sampling protocols, predictive models of mushroom yield, stand variables and mycosilvicultural practices that affect mushroom yield and fungal diversity. Finally, the potential of mycorrhizal applications for mycosilviculture is briefly discussed. Most of these studies have been based on carpophore inventories, and few have analyzed soil and air fungal biomass. The Mediterranean climate determines mushroom yields; so far, mushroom yields models have been developed mainly for Boletus gr. edulis and Lactarius gr. deliciosus species and for pine forest ecosystems. In the future, it will be necessary to adjust these models to new climatic conditions, and to investigate the complex interactions between different yield and/or fungal diversity factors, adjust the scale of study and fungus-host specificity. So far, few studies have been carried out on mycosilviculture in Mediterranean forests, addressing the effect of thinning and clearcutting on fungal communities; moreover, experiences of mycological management of shrublands, prescribed burning, management of woody debris or selective planting of mycorrhizal seedlings in forests are scarce. The need to study other Mediterranean forest ecosystems is pointed out.
A proof of principle study investigating the effects of supplemental concentrated brewer’s yeast on markers of gut permeability, inflammation, and fecal metabolites in healthy non-challenged adult sled dogs
Authors: Rummell Lindsey M , Steele Michael A , Templeman James R , Yohe Taylor T , Akhtar Nadeem , Lambie Jocelyn G , Singh Pawanpreet , Asquith Thomas , Verbrugghe Adronie , Pearson Wendy , Shoveller Anna K
Published: August 2022

Yeast-derived β-glucans impact immunity, though their effects on gut permeability and inflammation are less understood. Most research has investigated other components of the yeast cell wall, such as the prebiotic mannan- and fructo-oligosaccharides. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of feeding a concentrated yeast product on markers of inflammation (serum amyloid A [SAA] and haptoglobin [Hp]) and oxidative status (malondialdehyde [MDA]), fecal products of fermentation, and gut permeability. Nineteen privately owned domestic Siberian huskies, and one Alaskan husky (9 females: 5 intact, 4 spayed; 11 males: 3 intact, 8 neutered), with an average age of 4.8 ± 2.6 yr and body weight (BW) of 25.6 ± 4.1 kg, were used in this study. Dogs were blocked and randomly allocated to one of two diet groups. Ten dogs received a dry extruded diet. The other 10 received the same diet top dressed with yeast for a daily β–glucan dose of 7 mg/kg BW for 10 wk. Fecal collection, for evaluation of fecal metabolites, and scoring occurred weekly. Gut permeability was assessed using the chromium-labeled ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid (Cr-EDTA) and iohexol markers prior to the initiation of dietary treatment and after 10 wk of treatment. Blood samples were collected premarker administration and 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 h postadministration. Fasting concentrations of SAA, Hp, and MDA were measured on weeks −1, 2, 4, and 8. Incremental area under the curve (I-AUC) was calculated for serum iohexol and Cr-EDTA concentrations. All data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX of SAS with dog as random effect, and week as fixed effect and repeated measure. Dogs receiving treatment tended to have decreased I-AUC of Iohexol (P = 0.10) and Cr-EDTA (P = 0.06) between baseline and cessation of treatment compared to the change over time in I-AUC for control (Ctl) dogs. Treatment dogs had lower Hp concentrations (P ≤ 0.05) than Ctl. There were no differences between treatments for SAA and MDA concentrations (P > 0.05). Fecal arabinose concentrations were greater in treatment (Trt) dogs (P ≤ 0.05) compared to Ctl, though no other fecal metabolites were affected by treatment. There was no difference in the relative frequency of defecations scored at any fecal score between Trt and Ctl dogs, and mean score did not differ between groups (P > 0.10). These data suggest that concentrated brewer’s yeast may have the potential to reduce gut permeability without impacting inflammatory status and markers of health in adult dogs.
The Relative Preference of Empoasca onukii (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) for Oviposition on Twenty-Four Tea Cultivars
Authors: Yao Qi , Wang Manqun , Chen Zongmao
Published: August 2022

The tea green leafhopper, Empoasca onukii Matsuda (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) is currently one of the most threatening pests of tea production in China. Several approaches have been used to identify the resistance of different tea cultivars to this important tea pest. However, relatively limited information has been documented about its oviposition preferences. This study aimed to elucidate the preferential oviposition of E. onukii among 24 tea cultivars. Towards this objective, a multi-selective test for E. onukii oviposition was conducted in the laboratory, and the egg densities of E. onukii on 24 varieties were also surveyed in plantations at different time periods during the tea plant growing season in 2019. There was a significant difference in E. onukii egg densities among the 24 cultivars studied in both laboratory tests and the field investigations. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between the laboratory and field data for the number of eggs laid per cultivar. According to the laboratory and field evaluations, 2 cultivars were identified as very-susceptible for E. onukii oviposition, while another 5 cultivars were assigned as susceptible, 9 cultivars were classified as resistant and 2 cultivars were identified as very-resistant, respectively. This information on the oviposition preference for E. onukii on different cultivars could be used as a selection parameter for further breeding of leafhopper-resistant tea cultivars.
VINTERGATAN IV: Cosmic phases of star formation in Milky Way-like galaxies
Authors: Segovia Otero Álvaro , Renaud Florent , Agertz Oscar
Published: August 2022

The star formation history of a galaxy is modulated by a plethora of internal processes and environmental conditions. The details of how these evolve and couple together are not fully understood yet. In this work, we study the effects that galaxy mergers and morphological transformations have on setting different modes of star formation at galactic scales and across cosmic time. We monitor the global properties of vintergatan, a 20 pc resolution cosmological zoom-in simulation of a Milky Way-type galaxy. Between redshifts 1 and 5, we find that major mergers trigger multiple starburst episodes, corresponding to a tenfold drop of the gas depletion time down to 100 Myr. Bursty star formation is enabled by the emergence of a galactic disc, when the rotational velocity of gas starts to dominate over its velocity dispersion. Coherent motions of gas then outweigh disordered ones, such that the galaxy responds to merger-induced forcings by redistributing large amounts of gas towards high densities. As a result, the overall star formation rate (SFR) is enhanced with an associated decrease in the depletion time. Before redshift 5, mergers were expected to be even more frequent. However, a more turbulent interstellar medium is incapable of reacting in such a collective manner so as to spark rapid star formation. Thus, a constant long depletion time of 1 Gyr is kept, along with a low, but gradually increasing SFR. After the last major merger at redshift 1, vintergatan spends the next 8 Gyr evolving secularly. It has a settled and adiabatically growing disc, and a constant SFR with gas depletion times of 1–2 Gyr. Our results are compatible with the observed rapid transition between different modes of star formation when galaxies leave the main sequence.
Pulsar emission beam geometry of radio broad-band Arecibo sources
Authors: Olszanski Timothy , Rankin Joanna , Venkataraman Arun , Wahl Haley
Published: August 2022

We present radio pulsar emission beam analyses and models with the primary intent of examining pulsar beam geometry and physics over the broadest band of radio frequencies reasonably obtainable. We consider a set of well-studied pulsars that lie within the Arecibo sky. These pulsars stand out for the broad frequency range over which emission is detectable, and have been extensively observed at frequencies up to 4.5 GHz and down to below 100 MHz. We utilize published profiles to quantify a more complete picture of the frequency evolution of these pulsars using the core/double-cone emission beam model as our classification framework. For the low-frequency observations, we take into account measured scattering time-scales to infer intrinsic versus scatter broadening of the pulse profile. Lastly, we discuss the populational trends of the core/conal class profiles with respect to intrinsic parameters. We demonstrate that for this subpopulation of pulsars, core and conal dominated profiles cluster together into two roughly segregated $P{\!-\!}\dot{P}$ populations, lending credence to the proposal that an evolution in the pair-formation geometries is responsible for core/conal emission and other emission effects such as nulling and mode changing.
The MOSDEF survey: towards a complete census of the z ∼ 2.3 star-forming galaxy population
Authors: Runco Jordan N , Shapley Alice E , Sanders Ryan L , Kriek Mariska , Reddy Naveen A , Coil Alison L , Mobasher Bahram , Siana Brian , Topping Michael W , Freeman William R , Shivaei Irene , Azadi Mojegan , Price Sedona H , Leung Gene C K , Fetherolf Tara , de Groot Laura , Zick Tom , Fornasini Francesca M , Barro Guillermo
Published: August 2022

We analyse the completeness of the MOSDEF survey, in which z ∼ 2 galaxies were selected for rest-optical spectroscopy from well-studied HST extragalactic legacy fields down to a fixed rest-optical magnitude limit (HAB = 24.5). The subset of z ∼ 2 MOSDEF galaxies with high signal-to-noise (S/N) emission-line detections analysed in previous work represents a small minority (<10 per cent) of possible z ∼ 2 MOSDEF targets. It is therefore crucial to understand how representative this high S/N subsample is, while also more fully exploiting the MOSDEF spectroscopic sample. Using spectral-energy distribution (SED) models and rest-optical spectral stacking, we compare the MOSDEF z ∼ 2 high S/N subsample with the full MOSDEF sample of z ∼ 2 star-forming galaxies with redshifts, the latter representing an increase in sample size of more than a factor of three. We find that both samples have similar emission-line properties, in particular in terms of the magnitude of the offset from the local star-forming sequence on the [N ii] BPT diagram. There are small differences in median host galaxy properties, including the stellar mass (M*), star formation rate (SFR) and specific SFR (sSFR), and UVJ colours; however, these offsets are minor considering the wide spread of the distributions. Using SED modelling, we also demonstrate that the sample of z ∼ 2 star-forming galaxies observed by the MOSDEF survey is representative of the parent catalog of available such targets. We conclude that previous MOSDEF results on the evolution of star-forming galaxy emission-line properties were unbiased relative to the parent z ∼ 2 galaxy population.
Chemical abundances in the outskirts of nearby galaxy groups measured with joint Suzaku and Chandra observations
Authors: Sarkar Arnab , Su Yuanyuan , Truong Nhut , Randall Scott , Mernier François , Gastaldello Fabio , Biffi Veronica , Kraft Ralph
Published: August 2022

We report results from deep Suzaku and mostly snapshot Chandra observations of four nearby galaxy groups: MKW4, Antlia, RXJ1159+5531, and ESO3060170. Their peak temperatures vary over 2–3 keV, making them the smallest systems with gas properties constrained to their viral radii. The average Fe abundance in the outskirts (R > 0.25R200) of their intragroup medium is $Z_{\rm Fe}=0.309\pm 0.018\, Z_\odot$ with χ2 = 14 for 12 degrees of freedom, which is remarkably uniform and strikingly similar to that of massive galaxy clusters, and is fully consistent with the numerical predictions from the IllustrisTNG cosmological simulation. Our results support an early-enrichment scenario among galactic systems over an order of magnitude in mass, even before their formation. When integrated out to R200, we start to see a tension between the measured Fe content in intracluster medium and what is expected from supernovae yields. We further constrain their O, Mg, Si, S, and Ni abundances. The abundance ratios of those elements relative to Fe are consistent with the predictions (if available) from IllustrisTNG. Their Type Ia supernovae fraction varies between 14 per cent and 21 per cent. A pure core-collapsed supernovae enrichment at group outskirts can be ruled out. Their cumulative iron-mass-to-light ratios within R200 are half that of the Perseus cluster, which may imply that galaxy groups do not retain all of their enriched gas due to their shallower gravitational potential wells, or that groups and clusters may have different star formation histories.
The missing radial velocities of Gaia: Blind predictions for DR3
Authors: Naik Aneesh P , Widmark Axel
Published: August 2022

While Gaia has observed the phase space coordinates of over a billion stars in the Galaxy, in the overwhelming majority of cases it has only obtained five of the six coordinates, the missing dimension being the radial (line-of-sight) velocity. Using a realistic mock data set, we show that Bayesian neural networks are highly capable of ‘learning’ these radial velocities as a function of the other five coordinates, and thus filling in the gaps. For a given star, the network outputs are not merely point predictions, but full posterior distributions encompassing the intrinsic scatter of the stellar phase space distribution, the observational uncertainties on the network inputs, and any ‘epistemic’ uncertainty stemming from our ignorance about the stellar phase space distribution. Applying this technique to the real Gaia data, we generate and publish a catalogue of posteriors (median width: 25 km s−1) for the radial velocities of 16 million Gaia DR2/EDR3 stars in the magnitude range 6 < G < 14.5. Many of these gaps will be filled in very soon by Gaia DR3, which will serve to test our blind predictions. Thus, the primary use of our published catalogue will be to validate our method, justifying its future use in generating an updated catalogue of posteriors for radial velocities missing from Gaia DR3.
A method for targeting a specified segment of DNA to a bacterial microorganelle
Authors: Otoničar Jan , Hostnik Maja , Grundner Maja , Kostanjšek Rok , Gredar Tajda , Garvas Maja , Arsov Zoran , Podlesek Zdravko , Gostinčar Cene , Jakše Jernej , Busby Stephen J W , Butala Matej
Published: August 2022

Encapsulation of a selected DNA molecule in a cell has important implications for bionanotechnology. Non-viral proteins that can be used as nucleic acid containers include proteinaceous subcellular bacterial microcompartments (MCPs) that self-assemble into a selectively permeable protein shell containing an enzymatic core. Here, we adapted a propanediol utilization (Pdu) MCP into a synthetic protein cage to package a specified DNA segment in vivo, thereby enabling subsequent affinity purification. To this end, we engineered the LacI transcription repressor to be routed, together with target DNA, into the lumen of a Strep-tagged Pdu shell. Sequencing of extracted DNA from the affinity-isolated MCPs shows that our strategy results in packaging of a DNA segment carrying multiple LacI binding sites, but not the flanking regions. Furthermore, we used LacI to drive the encapsulation of a DNA segment containing operators for LacI and for a second transcription factor.
Clinical Recovery Among Individuals With a First-Episode Schizophrenia an Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hansen Helene Gjervig , Speyer Helene , Starzer Marie , Albert Nikolai , Hjorthøj Carsten , Eplov Lene Falgaard , Nordentoft Merete
Published: August 2022

Background and Hypothesis

Through decades the clinical recovery outcomes among individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia have been highly inconsistent ranging from 13.5% to 57%. The primary objective of this updated examination was to report the pooled estimate and explore various moderators to improve the understanding of the course of schizophrenia.

Study Design

A systematic literature search was set up on PubMed, PsycInfo, and EMBASE until January 13th, 2022. Both observational and interventional studies among cohorts of individuals with the first episode of schizophrenia reporting on clinical recovery were included. The PRISMA 2020 statement was used and data was extracted for a random-effects meta-analysis, meta-regression, and sensitivity analyses. Risk of bias was assessed using The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

Study Results

A 20.8% (95% CI = 17.3 to 24.8) recovery rate was found among 26 unique study samples (mean trial duration, 9.5 years) including 3877 individuals (mean age, 26.4 years). In meta-regression none of the following study characteristics could uncover the diverse reported recovery rates; age at inclusion (P = .84), year of inclusion (P = .93), follow-up time (P = .99), drop-out rate (P = .07), or strictness of the recovery criteria (P = .35). Furthermore, no differences in recovery were found between early intervention services (EIS; 19.5%; 95% CI = 15.0 to 24.8) compared to other interventions (21%; 95% CI = 16.9 to 25.8), P = .65.

Conclusions

A clinical recovery rate of approximately 21% was found with minimum impact from various moderators. The rate was not different comparing EIS with other interventions implying that new initiatives are needed to improve the rate of recovery.
Validation of a smartphone-based device to measure concentration, motility, and morphology in swine ejaculates
Authors: Suárez-Trujillo Aridany , Kandula Hemanth , Kumar Jasmine , Devi Anjali , Shirley Larissa , Thirumalaraju Prudhvi , Kanakasabapathy Manoj Kumar , Shafiee Hadi , Hart Liane
Published: August 2022

Assessment of swine semen quality is important as it is used as an estimate of the fertility of an ejaculate. There are many methods to measure sperm morphology, concentration, and motility, however, some methods require expensive instrumentation or are not easy to use on-farm. A portable, low-cost, automated device could provide the potential to assess semen quality in field conditions. The objective of this study was to validate the use of Fertile-Eyez (FE), a smartphone-based device, to measure sperm concentration, total motility, and morphology in boar ejaculates. Semen from six sexually mature boars were collected and mixed to create a total of 18 unique semen samples for system evaluations. Each sample was then diluted to 1:4, 1:8, 1:10, and 1:16 (for concentration only) with Androhep Plus semen extender (n = 82 total). Sperm concentration was evaluated using FE and compared to results measured using a Nucleocounter and computer assisted sperm analysis (CASA: Ceros II, Hamilton Thorne). Sperm motility was evaluated using FE and CASA. Sperm morphological assessments were evaluated by a single technician manually counting abnormalities and compared to FE deep-learning technology. Data were analyzed using both descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, intra-assay coefficient of variance, and residual standard deviation [RSD]) and statistical tests (correlation analysis between devices and Bland-Altman methods). Concentration analysis was strongly correlated (n = 18; r > 0.967; P < 0.0001) among all devices and dilutions. Analysis of motility showed moderate correlation and was significant when all dilutions are analyzed together (n = 54; r = 0.558; P < 0.001). The regression analysis for motility also showed the RSD as 3.95% between FE and CASA indicating a tight fit between devices. This RSD indicates that FE can find boars with unacceptable motility (boars for example with less than 70%) which impact fertility and litter size. The Bland-Altman analysis showed that FE-estimated morphological assessment and the conventionally estimated morphological score were similar, with a mean difference of ~1% (%95 Limits of Agreement: −6.2 to 8.1; n = 17). The results of this experiment demonstrate that FE, a portable and automated smartphone-based device, is capable of assessing concentration, motility, and morphology of boar semen samples.
Influence of form of selenium supplementation and tall fescue endophyte toxicity on growth performance, serum parameters, and tissue masses of grazing beef steers
Authors: Webb Kelsie L , Trotta Ronald J , Jia Yang , Bridges Phillip J , Matthews James C
Published: August 2022

To test the hypothesis that average daily gain (ADG) and clinical parameters of steers grazing novel non-toxic (NTE) or toxic KY-31 (TE) endophyte-infected tall fescue would be improved by ad libitum intake of vitamin-mineral mixes (V-M) that contain 27 ppm Se as a 1:1 blend of SELPLEX:sodium selenite (MIX) vs. sodium selenite (ISe), 32 fescue-naïve beef steers partially depleted of Se were randomly assigned to ad libitum consumption ISe vs. MIX for 35 days and fed enough of a NTE/alfalfa/grain diet to achieve 0.57 kg BW gain/day. Then, within Se-form treatments, two steers were randomly assigned to each of four NTE (ISe = 316 ± 31 kg BW, MIX = 315 ± 22 kg BW) or TE (ISe = 316 ± 37 kg BW, MIX = 314 ± 39 kg BW) paddocks for 84 days and had ad libitum access to their respective V-M. The MIXED procedure of SAS was used to assess effects of day, Se-form (ISe, MIX) and endophyte (NTE, TE) treatments, and their interactions. Whole blood Se decreased (P < 0.01) 31% from days 0 to 84 and was 6.2% greater (P < 0.01) for MIX steers. Serum prolactin decreased (P < 0.01) 18% for NTE and 48% for TE steers from days 0 to 84 and was 17% greater (P = 0.01) for MIX vs. ISe for TE steers. Serum alkaline phosphatase activity decreased (P < 0.02) 27% from days 0 to 84 and was 15% greater (P < 0.02) for MIX steers. Serum urea nitrogen increased (P < 0.02) 8.2% from days 0 to 84 for TE but not NTE steers. Average daily gain was less (P < 0.01) for steers grazing TE (−0.18 kg/day) compared with NTE (0.09 kg/d). Although there was increased serum alkaline phosphatase activity and increased serum prolactin for TE + MIX steers compared with TE + ISe steers, MIX supplementation was unable to increase serum prolactin concentrations or ADG to the same levels as steers grazing NTE. Longer adaptation to MIX supplementation ad libitum may be necessary for maximal Se assimilation to restore serum prolactin levels in steers grazing TE.
Impact of supplemented undenatured type II collagen on pain and mobility in healthy Labrador Retrievers during an exercise regimen
Authors: Varney Jessica L , Fowler Jason W , Coon Craig N
Published: August 2022

The aim of this experiment was to evaluate the effect of undenatured type II collagen supplementation on inflammation and pain using gait analysis and industry-accepted pain and mobility questionnaires during an exercise regimen in healthy dogs. Forty healthy Labrador Retrievers (20 male/20 female; range: 5 to 12 yr) were sorted into two groups: undenatured type II collagen group receiving 40 mg UC-II product (10 mg total collagen and ≥3% undenatured type II collagen) and placebo group receiving 40 mg maltodextrin daily by capsule. After 2 wk loading, all dogs began an 11 wk endurance exercise regimen consisting of two weekly runs, starting at 5 km and increasingly incrementally to 8 km, with one final 16 km run. Gait analysis was performed at baseline; before, 24 and 48 h after the first 5 km run; and before, 24 and 48 h after the final 16 km run. Gait analysis was calculated to obtain a Four Rivers Kennel (FRK) Inflammation Index score. Dogs were scored according to the Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD) and Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) assessments at baseline, before and after the first 5 km run, and before and after the final 16 km run. On the LOAD questionnaire, undenatured type II collagen group had improved “how active is the dog” (P = 0.03) and less “stiffness after a lie down” (P = 0.041) compared with placebo at pre 5 km. Undenatured type II collagen appeared to mitigate the development of pain after exercise compared with placebo, as related to the CPBI assessment. Undenatured type II collagen dogs had lower “pain at worst” pre 5 km (P = 0.021), “pain at least” post 5 km (P = 0.015), “pain at average” post 5 km (P = 0.046), and “pain as it is now” post 16 km (P = 0.006) compared with placebo dogs. Undenatured type II collagen was more effective than placebo at mitigating inflammation on gait analysis per the FRK Inflammation Index. Undenatured type II collagen dogs had a 6.42 lower FRK Inflammation Index score at 24 h post 5 km (P = 0.032) and 6.3 lower score at 24 h post 16 km (P = 0.029), indicating the mitigation of inflammation on gait analysis. When considering the change between timepoints, undenatured type II collagen had a lower increase in FRK Inflammation scores compared with placebo for baseline to pre 5 km (P < 0.001), pre 16 km to 24 h post 16 km (P = 0.028), and pre 16 km to 48 h post 16 km (P = 0.027). Undenatured type II collagen supplemented Labrador Retrievers improved pain assessment variables and improved FRK Inflammation Index on gait analysis.
Early Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Public Health Systems and Practice in 3 Canadian Provinces From the Perspective of Public Health Leaders: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Sandhu Harman S. , Smith Robert W. , Jarvis Tamika , O'Neill Meghan , Di Ruggiero Erica , Schwartz Robert , Rosella Laura C. , Allin Sara , Pinto Andrew D.
Published: August 2022

Context:

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted health systems worldwide. Studies to date have largely focused on the health care system with less attention to the impact on public health systems and practice.

Objective:

To describe the early impacts of COVID-19 on public health systems and practice in 3 Canadian provinces from the perspective of public health system leaders and synthesize lessons learned.

Design:

A qualitative study using semistructured virtual interviews with public health leaders between October 2020 and April 2021. The World Health Organization's essential public health operations framework guided data collection and analysis.

Setting:

This study involved the Canadian provinces of Alberta, Ontario, and Québec. These provinces were chosen for their large populations, relatively high COVID-19 burden, and variation in public health systems.

Participants:

Public health leaders from Alberta (n = 21), Ontario (n = 18), and Québec (n = 19) in organizations with a primary mandate of stewardship and/or administration of essential public health operations (total n = 58).

Results:

We found that the COVID-19 pandemic led to intensified collaboration in public health systems and a change in workforce capacity to respond to the pandemic. This came with opportunities but also challenges of burnout and disruption of non-COVID-19 services. Information systems and digital technologies were increasingly used and there was greater proximity between public health leaders and other health system leaders. A renewed recognition for public health work was also highlighted.

Conclusions:

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted several aspects of public health systems in the provinces studied. Our findings can help public health leaders and policy makers identify areas for further investment (eg, intersectoral collaboration, information systems) and develop plans to address challenges (eg, disrupted services, workforce burnout) that have surfaced.
Execution by lethal injection: Autopsy findings of pulmonary edema
Authors: Zivot Joel B. , Edgar Mark A. , Lubarsky David A.
Published: August 2022

Lethal injection is the common method of capital punishment in the United States (US), but problematic executions feed controversy centered on the 8th amendment of the US constitution that proscribes cruel punishment.1 However, the definition of cruelty is contentious, and lethal injection displays few signs of the hidden course of a potentially cruel death. Few survive and those who die cannot give witness. In this study, we reviewed autopsy reports of prisoners executed by intravenous midazolam (usually followed by a neuromuscular blocking agent and potassium chloride) or pentobarbital as a single drug. Autopsy reports for 43 inmates obtained from eight states were reviewed to identify any abnormal findings. Pulmonary edema (often fulminant with froth filling airways) emerged as a consistent and unexpected abnormality in 33/43 autopsies (76.74%), 23/28 midazolam executions (82.14%), and 10/15 (66.66%) pentobarbital executions. Injecting heavy overdoses of either acidic or basic solutions into the bloodstream may be directly toxic to pulmonary capillary endothelial cells. The injury manifests by the sudden escape of edema fluid into normally air-filled lungs, resulting in pulmonary edema. These findings explain witnessed respiratory distress during executions and increase concern about an inability of an execution witness to observe such a finding when a paralytic is added.
Death Registration coverage in India: Results from nationally representative survey
Authors: Saikia Nandita , Kumar Krishna , Das Bhaswati
Published: August 2022

Objective

To investigate the disparity and predictors of death registration in India.

Methods

We used National Family Health Survey (NFHS-2019-21) data. Based on eligible household members’ reports, we estimated death registration coverage among 84,390 deaths in all age groups across the country. We did multilevel binary logistic regression to examine demographic and socio-demographic predictor variables of death registration at state, district, and individual levels. We used GIS software for spatial mapping of the level of death registration at the district level, disaggregated by sex.

Findings

The death registration at the national level is 71%. We found that out of 707 districts in 2019, 122 and 53 districts recorded death registration level below 40 percent among females and males, respectively. There was a considerable difference in the death registration level by sex (male-74% and female-66%). Death registration level was higher in urban areas compared to rural areas (83% vs. 66%). We found death registration level was higher among households with BPL cards (72%), bank accounts (71%) and covered with health insurance (77%). Females, rural populations, people from disadvantaged castes, poorest wealth quintile, Muslims, and not having BPL cards have a lower likelihood of death registration in India. District-level predictors were not statistically significant in the model.

Conclusion

Demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the deceased are significantly associated with their death registration. We suggest periodic awareness programs on death registration procedures and facilitating easy access to death registration offices in lower performing districts and areas among the marginalised population groups.
Inflammation and cognition in severe mental illness: Patterns of covariation and subgroups
Authors: Sæther Linn Sofie , Ueland Thor , Haatveit Beathe , Maglanoc Luigi A. , Szabo Attila , Djurovic Srdjan , Aukrust Pål , Roelfs Daniel , Mohn Christine , Greenwood Ormerod Monica Bettina Elkjaer , Lagerberg Trine Vik , Steen Nils Eiel , Melle Ingrid , Andreassen Ole A. , Ueland Torill
Published: August 2022

Cognitive impairments are common in severe mental illnesses (SMI), such as schizophrenia (SZ) and bipolar (BD) spectrum disorders, with substantial heterogeneity in both diagnostic categories. It has been suggested that dysregulation of immune and inflammatory pathways may contribute to cognitive impairment. This study aimed to investigate covariance patterns between cognitive domains and inflammatory/immune-related markers and further elucidate inter-individual variance in a large SMI and healthy control (HC) cohort (SZ = 343, BD = 298, HC = 770). We applied canonical correlation analysis (CCA) to identify modes of maximum covariation between a comprehensive selection of cognitive measures and inflammatory/immune markers. We found that poor verbal learning and psychomotor processing speed was associated with higher levels of interleukin-18 system cytokines and beta defensin 2, reflecting enhanced activation of innate immunity, a pattern augmented in SMI compared to HC. Applying hierarchical clustering on covariance patterns identified by the CCA revealed a high cognition – low immune dysregulation subgroup with predominantly HC (24% SZ, 45% BD, 74% HC) and a low cognition – high immune dysregulation subgroup predominantly consisting of SMI patients (76% SZ, 55% BD, 26% HC). These subgroups differed in IQ, years of education, age, CRP, BMI (all groups), level of functioning, symptoms and DDD of antipsychotics (SMI cohort). Our findings suggest a potential link between cognitive functioning and innate immune dysregulation.