bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineering organ-on-a-chip systems to model viral infections
Authors: Shahabipour Fahimeh , Satta Sandro , Mahmoodi Mahboobeh , Sun Argus , de Barros Natan Roberto , Li Song , Hsiai Tzung , Ashammakhi Nureddin
Published: April 2022

Infectious diseases remain a public healthcare concern worldwide. Amidst the pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, increasing resources have been diverted to investigate therapeutics targeting the COVID-19 spike glycoprotein and to develop various classes of vaccines. Most of the current investigations employ two-dimensional (2D) cell culture and animal models. However, 2D culture negates the multicellular interactions and three-dimensional (3D) microenvironment, and animal models cannot mimic human physiology because of interspecies differences. On the other hand, organ-on-a-chip (OoC) devices introduce a game-changer to model viral infections in human tissues, facilitating high-throughput screening of antiviral therapeutics. In this context, this review provides an overview of the in vitro OoC-based modeling of viral infection, highlighting the strengths and challenges for the future.
Properties of electron lenses produced by ponderomotive potential with Bessel and Laguerre–Gaussian beams
Authors: Uesugi Yuuki , Kozawa Yuichi , Sato Shunichi
Published: April 2022

The properties of electron round lenses produced by the ponderomotive potential are investigated in geometrical optics. The potential proportional to the intensity distribution of a focused first-order Bessel or Laguerre–Gaussian (LG) beam is exploited to produce an electron round lens and a third-order spherical aberration (SA) corrector. Several formulas for the focal length and SA coefficients in the thin-lens approximation are derived to set the lens properties and associated light beam parameters. When the mode field of the optical beam is small, the electron trajectory calculation results show properties similar to those obtained using the formulas. Alternatively, large higher-order aberrations are introduced because of the annular distribution of the potential. The second- and higher-order Bessel and LG beams produce no focusing power and no negative third-order SA; however, they can still be used as circularly symmetric higher-order aberration correctors. Results show that the ponderomotive potential–based electron lens or phase plate forms a refractive index medium with a shape that is considerably more flexible than that achieved in the case of conventional electrostatic and magnetic electron optics. The formulas presented herein can serve as guidelines for designing preferred light fields, thus promoting the advancement of a novel technology in electron optics that exploits the electron–light interaction.
Best practices for photovoltaic performance loss rate calculations
Authors: Lindig Sascha , Theristis Marios , Moser David
Published: April 2022

The performance loss rate (PLR) is a vital parameter for the time-dependent assessment of photovoltaic (PV) system performance and health state. Although this metric can be calculated in a relatively straightforward manner, it is challenging to achieve accurate and reproducible results with low uncertainty. Furthermore, the temporal evolution of PV system performance is usually nonlinear, but in many cases a linear evaluation is preferred as it simplifies the assessment and it is easier to evaluate. As such, the search for a robust and reproducible calculation methodology providing reliable linear PLR values across different types of systems and conditions has been the focus of many research activities in recent years. In this paper, the determination of PV system PLR using different pipelines and approaches is critically evaluated and recommendations for best practices are given. As nonlinear PLR assessments are fairly new, there is no consent on how to calculate reliable values. Several promising nonlinear approaches have been developed recently and are presented as tools to evaluate the PV system performance in great detail. Furthermore, challenges are discussed with respect to the PLR calculation but also opportunities for differentiating individual performance losses from a generic PLR value having the potential of enabling actionable insights for maintenance.
Effect of conductance linearity of Ag-chalcogenide CBRAM synaptic devices on the pattern recognition accuracy of an analog neural training accelerator
Authors: Apsangi Priyanka , Barnaby Hugh , Kozicki Michael , Gonzalez-Velo Yago , Taggart Jennifer
Published: April 2022

Pattern recognition using deep neural networks (DNN) has been implemented using resistive RAM (RRAM) devices. To achieve high classification accuracy in pattern recognition with DNN systems, a linear, symmetric weight update as well as multi-level conductance (MLC) behavior of the analog synapse is required. Ag-chalcogenide based conductive bridge RAM (CBRAM) devices have demonstrated multiple resistive states making them potential candidates for use as analog synapses in neuromorphic hardware. In this work, we analyze the conductance linearity response of these devices to different pulsing schemes. We have demonstrated an improved linear response of the devices from a non-linearity factor of 6.65 to 1 for potentiation and −2.25 to −0.95 for depression with non-identical pulse application. The effect of improved linearity was quantified by simulating the devices in an artificial neural network. The classification accuracy of two-layer neural network was seen to be improved from 85% to 92% for small digit MNIST dataset.
Developmental changes in ciliary composition during gametogenesis inChlamydomonas
Authors: Sakato-Antoku Miho , King Stephen M.
Published: April 2022

This study examines the proteomic changes that occur in cilia of the green alga Chlamydomonas as it transitions between life-cycle stages. The dataset identifies multiple proteins that may impact gamete interactions and responses during mating.
Barriers and facilitators to implementing pharmacist-provided comprehensive medication management in primary care transformation
Authors: Pestka Deborah L , Paterson Nicole L , Brummel Amanda R , Norman Jeffrey A , White Katie M
Published: April 2022

Purpose

How to effectively integrate pharmacists into team-based models of care to maximize the benefit they bring to patients and care teams, especially during times of primary care transformation (PCT), remains unknown. The objective of this study was to identify barriers and facilitators when integrating pharmacist-provided comprehensive medication management (CMM) services into a health system’s team-based PCT using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).

Methods

Semistructured qualitative interviews were carried out with 22 care team members regarding their perceptions of the implementation of CMM in the PCT. Transcripts were coded to identify CMM implementation barriers and facilitators, and resulting codes were mapped to corresponding CFIR domains and constructs.

Results

Fifteen codes emerged that were labeled as either a barrier or a facilitator to implementing CMM in the PCT. Facilitators were the perception of CMM as an invaluable resource, precharting, tailored appointment lengths, insurance coverage, increased pharmacy presence, enhanced team-based care, location of CMM, and identification of CMM advocates. Barriers included limited clinic leadership involvement, a need for additional resources, CMM pharmacists not always feeling part of the core team, understanding of and training around CMM’s role in the PCT, changing mindsets to utilize resources such as CMM more frequently, underutilization of CMM, and CMM scheduling.

Conclusion

Clinical pharmacists providing CMM represent a valuable interdisciplinary care team member who can help improve healthcare quality and access to primary care. Identifying and addressing implementation barriers and facilitators early during PCT rollout is critical to the success of team-based services such as CMM and becoming a learning health system.
Impact of an infectious diseases pharmacist–led intervention on antimicrobial stewardship program guideline adherence at a Thai medical center
Authors: Jantarathaneewat Kittiya , Montakantikul Preecha , Weber David J , Nanthapisal Sira , Rutjanawech Sasinuch , Apisarnthanarak Anucha
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To evaluate and compare antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) guideline adherence (primary outcome) as well as length of stay, 30-day all-cause mortality, clinical cure, antimicrobial consumption, and incidence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens (secondary outcomes) between an infectious diseases (ID) pharmacist–led intervention group and a standard ASP group.

Methods

A quasi-experimental study was performed at Thammasat University Hospital between August 2019 and April 2020. Data including baseline characteristics and primary and secondary outcomes were collected from the electronic medical record by the ID pharmacist.

Results

The ASP guideline adherence in the ID pharmacist–led intervention group was significantly higher than in the standard ASP group (79% vs 56.6%; P < 0.001), especially with regard to appropriate indication (P < 0.001), dosage regimen (P = 0.005), and duration (P = 0.001). The acceptance rate of ID pharmacist recommendations was 81.8% (44/54). The most common key barriers to following recommendations were physician resistance (11/20; 55%) and high severity of disease in the patient (6/20; 30%). Compared to the standard ASP group, there was a trend toward clinical cure in the ID pharmacist–led intervention group (63.6% vs 56.1%; P = 0.127), while 30-day all-cause mortality (15.9% vs 1.5%; P = 0.344) and median length of stay (20 vs 18 days; P = 0.085) were similar in the 2 groups. Carbapenem (P = 0.042) and fosfomycin (P = 0.014) consumption declined in the ID pharmacist–led intervention group. A marginally significant decrease in the overall incidence of MDR pathogens was also observed in the ID pharmacist–led intervention group (coefficient, –5.93; P = 0.049).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that an ID pharmacist–led intervention can improve ASP guideline adherence and may reduce carbapenem consumption.
Recovery from aphasia in the first year after stroke
Authors: Wilson Stephen M , Entrup Jillian L , Schneck Sarah M , Onuscheck Caitlin F , Levy Deborah F , Rahman Maysaa , Willey Emma , Casilio Marianne , Yen Melodie , Brito Alexandra C , Kam Wayneho , Davis L Taylor , de Riesthal Michael , Kirshner Howard S
Published: April 2022

Most individuals who experience aphasia after a stroke recover to some extent, with the majority of gains taking place in the first year. The nature and time course of this recovery process is only partially understood, especially its dependence on lesion location and extent, which are the most important determinants of outcome. The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive description of patterns of recovery from aphasia in the first year after stroke.

We recruited 334 patients with acute left hemisphere supratentorial ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke and evaluated their speech and language function within 5 days using the Quick Aphasia Battery (QAB). At this initial time point, 218 patients presented with aphasia. Individuals with aphasia were followed longitudinally, with follow-up evaluations of speech and language at 1 month, 3 months, and 1 year post-stroke, wherever possible. Lesions were manually delineated based on acute clinical MRI or CT imaging. Patients with and without aphasia were divided into 13 groups of individuals with similar, commonly occurring patterns of brain damage. Trajectories of recovery were then investigated as a function of group (i.e. lesion location and extent) and speech/language domain (overall language function, word comprehension, sentence comprehension, word finding, grammatical construction, phonological encoding, speech motor programming, speech motor execution, and reading).

We found that aphasia is dynamic, multidimensional, and gradated, with little explanatory role for aphasia subtypes or binary concepts such as fluency. Patients with circumscribed frontal lesions recovered well, consistent with some previous observations. More surprisingly, most patients with larger frontal lesions extending into the parietal or temporal lobes also recovered well, as did patients with relatively circumscribed temporal, temporoparietal, or parietal lesions. Persistent moderate or severe deficits were common only in patients with extensive damage throughout the middle cerebral artery distribution or extensive temporoparietal damage. There were striking differences between speech/language domains in their rates of recovery and relationships to overall language function, suggesting that specific domains differ in the extent to which they are redundantly represented throughout the language network, as opposed to depending on specialized cortical substrates.

Our findings have an immediate clinical application in that they will enable clinicians to estimate the likely course of recovery for individual patients, as well as the uncertainty of these predictions, based on acutely observable neurological factors.
Optimal Covid-19 Quarantine and Testing Policies
Authors: Piguillem Facundo , Shi Liyan
Published: April 2022

We study quantitatively the optimality of quarantine and testing policies; and whether they are complements or substitutes. We extend the epidemiological susceptible-exposed-infectious-recovered model to incorporate an information friction. Our main finding is that testing is a cost-efficient substitute for lockdowns, rendering them almost unnecessary. By identifying carriers, testing contains the spread of the virus without reducing output, although the implementation requires widespread massive testing. As a byproduct, we show that two distinct optimal lockdown policy types arise: suppression, intended to eliminate the virus, and mitigation, concerned about flattening the curve. The choice between them is determined by a ‘hope-for-the-cure’ effect, arising due to either an expected vaccine or the belief that the virus can be eliminated. Conditional on the policy type, the intensity and duration of the intervention is invariant to both the trade-off between lives and output and the aversion to GDP variations: the optimal intervention path depends mostly on the virus dynamics.
Microbialites show a distinct cyanobacterial phylogenetic structure and functional redundancy in Bacalar lagoon and Cenote Azul sinkhole, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
Authors: Águila B , Yanez-Montalvo A , Mercado-Juárez R A , Montejano G A , Becerra-Absalón I , Falcón L I
Published: April 2022

Cyanobacterial components of microbialites from two geographically close systems, the Bacalar lagoon (BL) and the Cenote Azul sinkhole (CA) in Quintana Roo, Mexico, were characterized. BL and CA systems were studied along a longitudinal gradient (north to south) and a depth gradient (5–30 m), respectively. Microscopic observations, 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, and shotgun metagenomics were used to characterize Cyanobacteria. Both systems showed similar metabolic/functional profiles but harbored completely different cyanobacterial taxa. BL was dominated by Nostocales, including a population of previously undescribed Chakia sp., while CA was dominated by an unknown taxon of Chroococcales, comprising 70% of relative abundance through all depths. Interestingly, cyanobacterial assemblages in microbialites exhibited phylogenetic overdispersion in most of the BL sites, while CA sites exhibited phylogenetic clustering, these differences were attributed to depth/light conditions and possibly different times of geological formation for BL and CA systems.
Populist Minds Think Alike? National Identity Conceptions and Foreign Policy Preferences of Populist Leaders
Authors: Friedrichs Gordon M
Published: April 2022

The global wave of populism has recently drawn the attention of foreign policy analysts. Despite significant contributions, we still know little about populist leaders’ conceptions of their nation's identity and how these inform foreign policy preferences. What understanding do populists have regarding what their nation stands for and how high it stands in comparison to others? In this article, I introduce a theoretical model of identity-driven foreign policymaking that examines the national identity conceptions of six populist leaders and their non-populist predecessors via an original quantitative content analysis of foreign policy speeches. The article further assesses whether this identity conception translates into foreign policy preferences for revisionism toward the liberal international order by examining voting behavior in the UN General Assembly. The article contributes to conceptual and methodological approaches in foreign policy analysis to study individuals, as well as provides comparative empirical evidence for what drives populists’ foreign policy thinking.
Estimating tephra fall volume from point-referenced thickness measurements
Authors: Rougier J C , Sparks R S J , Aspinall W P , Mahony S H
Published: April 2022

We describe an algorithm for producing an approximate 95 per cent confidence interval (CI) for the bulk volume of tephra fall deposits, based on point-referenced tephra thickness measurements, and expert judgement. Applied to the Aso-4 eruption, our algorithm gives a 95 per cent CI of $[220\, \mathrm{km^3}, 370\, \mathrm{km^3}]$. One component of our algorithm is an estimated thickness surface, from which is it also possible to produce isopach maps, thickness transects and ‘Pyleograms’. Our approach uses modern methods from statistics and machine learning to model and fit the thickness surface, and to produce the 95 per cent CI, and we contrast these with established approaches.
Persuasion in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Theories and Complications of AI-Based Persuasion
Authors: Dehnert Marco , Mongeau Paul A
Published: April 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) has profound implications for both communication and persuasion. We consider how AI complicates and promotes rethinking of persuasion theory and research. We define AI-based persuasion as a symbolic process in which a communicative-AI entity generates, augments, or modifies a message—designed to convince people to shape, reinforce, or change their responses—that is transmitted to human receivers. We review theoretical perspectives useful for studying AI-based persuasion—the Computers Are Social Actors (CASA) paradigm, the Modality, Agency, Interactivity, and Navigability (MAIN) model, and the heuristic-systematic model of persuasion—to explicate how differences in AI complicate persuasion in two ways. First, thin AI exhibits few (if any) machinic (i.e., AI) cues, social cues might be available, and communication is limited and indirect. Second, thick AI exhibits ample machinic and social cues, AI presence is obvious, and communication is direct and interactive. We suggest avenues for future research in each case.
Top-down Versus Step-up Strategies to Prevent Postoperative Recurrence in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Buisson Anthony , Blanco Lysa , Manlay Luc , Reymond Maud , Dapoigny Michel , Rouquette Olivier , Dubois Anne , Pereira Bruno
Published: April 2022

Background

The best management after ileocolonic resection is still unknown in Crohn’s disease (CD). We compared step-up and top-down approaches to prevent short and long-term postoperative recurrences in CD patients.

Methods

From a comprehensive database, consecutive CD patients who underwent intestinal resection (2014-2021) were included. Top-down (biologics started within the first month after surgery) or step-up strategies (no biologic between surgery and colonoscopy at 6 months) were performed with systematic colonoscopy at 6 months and therapeutic escalation if Rutgeerts index was ≥i2a (endoscopic postoperative recurrence). Propensity score analysis was applied for each comparison.

Results

Among 115 CD patients, top-down was the most effective strategy to prevent endoscopic postoperative recurrence (46.8% vs 65.9%, P = .042) and to achieve complete endoscopic remission (Rutgeerts index = i0; 45.3% vs 19.3%; P = .004) at 6 months. We did not observe any significant difference between the 2 groups regarding clinical postoperative recurrence (hazard ratio [HR], .86 [0.44-1.66], P = .66) and progression of bowel damage (HR, 0.81 [0.63-1.06], P = .12). Endoscopic postoperative recurrence at 6 months was associated with increased risk of clinical postoperative recurrence (HR, 1.97 [1.07-3.64], P 0.029) and progression of bowel damage (HR, 3.33 [1.23-9.02], P = .018). Among the subgroup without endoscopic postoperative recurrence at 6 months, the risks of clinical postoperative recurrence and progression of bowel damage were significantly improved in the top-down group (HR, 0.59 [0.37-0.94], P = .025; and HR, 0.73 [0.63-0.83], P < .001, respectively).

Conclusions

Top-down strategy should be the preferred management to prevent short and long-term postoperative recurrence in CD.
A modified sutureless repair for left pulmonary vein obstruction after catheter ablation
Authors: Matsuyama Katsuhiko , Watanuki Hirotaka , Tochii Masato , Sugiyama Kayo
Published: April 2022

A 52-year-old man presented with temporal haemoptysis and chest pain 6 months after radiofrequency catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. Computed tomography revealed severe stenosis in the left upper pulmonary vein (PV) and complete occlusion of the left lower PV. A modified sutureless repair of the left PV obstruction was successfully performed. This modified procedure provides a feasible, safe and effective means of treating PV obstruction, even in cases with distal extension of stenosis.
Malignant granular cell tumour at the interventricular septum
Authors: Lou Weng-Kin , Chou Heng-Wen , Chen Tom Wei-Wu , Hsu Che-Yu , Chen Jeng-Wei
Published: April 2022

Granular cell tumours are usually benign with a 1–2% incidence of malignancy. They are less sensitive to radiotherapy and chemotherapy and are treated by surgical excision. We report a case of a malignant granular cell tumour located at the interventricular septum.
Automation Assemblages in the Internet of Things: Discovering Qualitative Practices at the Boundaries of Quantitative Change
Authors: Novak Thomas P , Hoffman Donna L
Published: April 2022

We examine consumers’ interactions with smart objects using a novel mixed-method approach, guided by assemblage theory, to discover the emergence of automation practices. We use a unique text data set from the web service IFTTT, (“If This Then That”), representing hundreds of thousands of applets that represent “if–then” connections between pairs of Internet services. Consumers use these applets to automate events in their daily lives. We quantitatively identify and qualitatively interpret automation assemblages that emerge bottom-up as different consumers create similar applets within unique social contexts. Our data discovery approach combines word embeddings, density-based clustering, and nonlinear dimensionality reduction with an inductive approach to the thematic analysis. We uncover 127 nested automation assemblages that correspond to automation practices. Practices are interpreted in terms of four higher-order categories: social expression, social connectedness, extended mind, and relational AI. To investigate the future trajectories of automation practices, we use the concept of the possibility space, a fundamental theoretical idea from assemblage theory. Using our empirical approach, we translate this theoretical possibility space of automation assemblages into a data visualization to predict how existing practices can grow and new practices can emerge. Our new approach makes conceptual, methodological, and empirical contributions with implications for consumer research and marketing strategy.
Changes in Container-Breeding Mosquito Diversity and Abundance Along an Urbanization Gradient are Associated With Dominance of Arboviral Vectors
Authors: Zettle MyKenna , Anderson Elsa , LaDeau Shannon L
Published: April 2022

Environmental conditions associated with urbanization are likely to influence the composition and abundance of mosquito (Diptera, Culicidae) assemblages through effects on juvenile stages, with important consequences for human disease risk. We present six years (2011–2016) of weekly juvenile mosquito data from distributed standardized ovitraps and evaluate how variation in impervious cover and temperature affect the composition and abundance of container-breeding mosquito species in Maryland, USA. Species richness and evenness were lowest at sites with high impervious cover (>60% in 100-m buffer). However, peak diversity was recorded at sites with intermediate impervious cover (28–35%). Four species were observed at all sites, including two recent invasives (Aedes albopictus Skuse, Ae. japonicus Theobald), an established resident (Culex pipiens L), and one native (Cx. restuans Theobald). All four are viral vectors in zoonotic or human transmission cycles. Temperature was a positive predictor of weekly larval abundance during the growing season for each species, as well as a positive predictor of rapid pupal development. Despite being observed at all sites, each species responded differently to impervious cover. Abundance of Ae. albopictus larvae was positively associated with impervious cover, emphasizing that this medically-important vector not only persists in the warmer, impervious urban landscape but is positively associated with it. Positive temperature effects in our models of larval abundance and pupae occurrence in container habitats suggest that these four vector species are likely to continue to be present and abundant in temperate cities under future temperature scenarios.
Distinct Patterns of Amyloid Pathology in Autopsies of Transthyretin S77Y and A97S Amyloidosis: Significance of Symptomatology and Cell Biology
Authors: Chang Koping , Yang Wei-Kang , Li Wan-Ting , Yeh Ti-Yen , Jao Chia-Hsuan , Lin Jhih Rong , Lin Cheng Chen , Jeng Yung-Ming , Chao Chi-Chao , Hsieh Sung-Tsang
Published: April 2022

Hereditary transthyretin (ATTRv) amyloidosis is a systemic disease with amyloid deposition in the peripheral and autonomic nervous systems caused by mutation of transthyretin (TTR) gene. The mutant TTR S77Y is the second prevalent mutation in many countries. In Taiwan, A97S mutant accounts for more than 90% of cases. Although distinct clinical manifestations such as dysphagia, carpal tunnel syndrome, and sudden cardiac death occur, the underlying pathology has not been elucidated. Here, we report the first autopsy cases of ATTRv S77Y and A97S and comprehensively compare the pathology underlying the unique clinical manifestations. This study demonstrated the following: (1) distinct spatial patterns of amyloid deposits in peripheral nerves, with a tendency toward more amyloid deposition in the large peripheral nerves, particularly the median nerves, and scarcely in the sural nerves, and different amyloid distribution in different genotypes; (2) amyloid deposits in the conduction system of the heart in addition to surrounding cardiomyocytes; (3) extensive amyloid deposits in the larynx and gastrointestinal tract, contributing to the unique clinical symptom of dysphagia; and (4) characteristic TTR intracytoplasmic inclusions in the hepatocytes of A97S. The pathology of the first autopsied cases of ATTRv S77Y and A97S provides pathology and mechanisms underlying unique clinical manifestations.
Ethical Responsibilities of a Military to the Social Determinants of Health of its Service Members
Authors: Smith Hunter Jackson
Published: April 2022

A military exists in a unique position. It is an organization in which active duty members knowingly join or are conscripted into service with the understanding that there is an increased risk of mental and/or bodily harm as compared to many other occupations. However, while the nature of the profession can inherently be dangerous, it does not follow that its members be placed at undue excess risk if that risk can be reasonably avoided or reduced. Social determinants of health are one example of influences under a military’s purview that impact health outcomes and well-being. Although the U.S. Military performs well across many health equity measures, disparities persist and require attention and redress. Military policies and practices deeply impact members’ lives during and after service, and the durability and profundity of these effects establish the ethical grounds upon which any military policy should be structured. The ethical obligation is fortified by the extent of control a military exercises over its personnel. Taken together, these factors necessitate a concerted effort by militaries to remain cognizant of the ethical impacts of their policies and practices and to ensure focus remains on the well-being and readiness of its personnel. As such, militaries have ethical responsibilities to promote healthy social determinants of health among their service members via policies and public health measures.
A Diagnosis You Cannot Afford to MIS-C: Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children Within the Active Duty Population
Authors: Attonito John , Edwards Isaac , Monson Michael
Published: April 2022

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), which is associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and occurs in the immediately post-infectious period, has never-before been reported within the active duty population. It typically affects children, aged 5-13 years, but has been shown to affect those up to 20 years old. We present an 18-year-old active duty male that arrived at a military treatment facility emergency department with headache, neck pain, and shock without evidence of meningoencephalitis on cerebrospinal fluid analysis and with a negative COVID-19 test. He developed significant abdominal pain and cardiomyopathy. Chest computed tomography showed evidence of ground glass infiltrates, and repeat testing was positive for the COVID-19 virus. Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) was diagnosed and treated with a rapid improvement in the patient’s condition. It is a rare but potentially fatal condition that has been shown to affect patients up to the age of 20, encompassing a large part of the junior enlisted population. Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) can lead to death, yet mimic other diseases leading to delay of care. Thus, it should be considered when faced with the appropriate constellation of symptoms.
The matter density PDF for modified gravity and dark energy with Large Deviations Theory
Authors: Cataneo Matteo , Uhlemann Cora , Arnold Christian , Gough Alex , Li Baojiu , Heymans Catherine
Published: April 2022

We present an analytical description of the probability distribution function (PDF) of the smoothed 3D matter density field for modified gravity and dark energy. Our approach, based on the principles of Large Deviations Theory, is applicable to general extensions of the standard Lambda cold dark matter (ΛCDM) cosmology. We show that late-time changes to the law of gravity and background expansion can be included through Einstein-de Sitter spherical collapse dynamics combined with linear theory calculations and a calibration measurement of the non-linear variance of the smoothed density field from a simple numerical simulation. In a comparison to N-body simulations for f(R), DGP, and evolving dark energy theories, we find per cent level accuracy around the peak of the distribution for predictions in the mildly non-linear regime. A Fisher forecast of an idealized experiment with a Euclid-like survey volume demonstrates the power of combining measurements of the 3D matter PDF with the 3D matter power spectrum. This combination is shown to halve the uncertainty on parameters for an evolving dark energy model, relative to a power spectrum analysis on its own. The PDF is also found to substantially increase the detection significance for small departures from General Relativity, with improvements of up to six times compared to the power spectrum alone. This analysis is therefore very promising for future studies including non-Gaussian statistics, as it has the potential to alleviate the reliance of these analyses on expensive high-resolution simulations and emulators.
Trajectories and radiation of charged particles in the pulsar magnetosphere
Authors: Chang Shan , Zhang Li , Jiang Zejun , Li Xiang
Published: April 2022

Trajectories and radiation of the accelerating electrons are studied in the pulsar magnetosphere approximated as the electromagnetic field of the Deutsch’s solutions. Because the electrons are accelerated rapidly to ultra-relativistic velocity near the neutron star surface, the electron velocity vector (and then its trajectory) is derived from the balance between Lorentz force and radiation reaction force, which makes the pitch angle between electron trajectories and magnetic field lines non-zero in most part of the magnetosphere. In such a case, the spectral energy distributions (SEDs) of synchro-curvature radiation for the accelerating electrons with a mono-energetic form are calculated. Our results indicate that: (i) the pitch angle is the function of electron position (r, θ, ϕ) in the open field line regions, and increases with increasing r and θ as well as increasing the inclination angle; (ii) the radius of curvature becomes large along the particle trajectory, and (iii) the SED appears a double peak structure depending on the emission position, where the synchrotron radiation plays an important role in X-ray band and curvature radiation mainly works in GeV band, which is only determined by parameters α and ζ.
Beyond mass: detecting secondary halo properties with galaxy-galaxy lensing
Authors: Xhakaj Enia , Leauthaud Alexie , Lange Johannes , Hearin Andrew , Diemer Benedikt , Dalal Neal
Published: April 2022

Secondary halo properties beyond mass, such as the mass accretion rate (MAR), concentration, and the half mass scale, are essential in understanding the formation of large-scale structure and dark matter haloes. In this paper, we study the impact of secondary halo properties on the galaxy-galaxy lensing observable, ΔΣ. We build an emulator trained on N-body simulations to model ΔΣ and quantify the impact of different secondary parameters on the ΔΣ profile. We focus on the impact of MAR on ΔΣ. We show that a 3σ detection of variations in MAR at fixed halo mass could be achieved with the Hyper Suprime Cam survey assuming no baryonic effects and a proxy for MAR with scatter <1.5. We show that the full radial profile of ΔΣ depends on secondary properties at fixed halo mass. Consequently, an emulator that can perform full shape fitting yields better than two times improvement upon the constraints on MAR than only using the outer part of the halo. Finally, we highlight that miscentring and MAR impact the radial profile of ΔΣ in a similar fashion, implying that miscentring and MAR need to be modelled jointly for unbiased estimates of both effects. We show that present-day lensing data sets have the statistical capability to place constraints on halo MAR within our assumptions. Our analysis opens up new possibilities for observationally measuring the assembly history of the dark matter haloes that host galaxies and clusters.
Long-term 3D MHD simulations of black hole accretion discs formed in neutron star mergers
Authors: Fahlman Steven , Fernández Rodrigo
Published: April 2022

We examine the long-term evolution of accretion tori around black hole (BH) remnants of compact object mergers involving at least one neutron star, to better understand their contribution to kilonovae and the synthesis of r-process elements. To this end, we modify the unsplit magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) solver in flash  4.5 to work in non-uniform three-dimensional spherical coordinates, enabling more efficient coverage of a large dynamic range in length scales while exploiting symmetries in the system. This modified code is used to perform BH accretion disc simulations that vary the initial magnetic field geometry and disc compactness, utilizing a physical equation of state, a neutrino leakage scheme for emission and absorption, and modelling the BH’s gravity with a pseudo-Newtonian potential. Simulations run for long enough to achieve a radiatively inefficient state in the disc. We find robust mass ejection with both poloidal and toroidal initial field geometries, and suppressed outflow at high disc compactness. With the included physics, we obtain bimodal velocity distributions that trace back to mass ejection by magnetic stresses at early times, and to thermal processes in the radiatively inefficient state at late times. The electron fraction distribution of the disc outflow is broad in all models, and the ejecta geometry follows a characteristic hourglass shape. We test the effect of removing neutrino absorption or nuclear recombination with axisymmetric models, finding ${\sim} 50{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ less mass ejection and more neutron-rich composition without neutrino absorption, and a subdominant contribution from nuclear recombination. Tests of the MHD and neutrino leakage implementations are included.
fBLS – a fast-folding BLS algorithm
Authors: Shahaf S , Zackay B , Mazeh T , Faigler S , Ivashtenko O
Published: April 2022

We present fBLS – a novel fast-folding technique to search for transiting planets, based on the fast-folding algorithm (FFA), which is extensively used in pulsar astronomy. For a given light curve with N data points, fBLS simultaneously produces all the binned phase-folded light curves for an array of Np trial periods. For each folded light curve produced by fBLS, the algorithm generates the standard BLS periodogram and statistics. The number of performed arithmetic operations is $\mathcal {O}(N_p\cdot \log N_p)$, while regular BLS requires $\mathcal {O}(N_p\cdot N)$ operations. fBLS can be used to detect small rocky transiting planets, with periods shorter than one day, a period range for which the computation is extensive. We demonstrate the capabilities of the new algorithm by performing a preliminary fBLS search for planets with ultra-short periods in the Kepler main-sequence light curves. In addition, we developed a simplistic signal validation scheme for vetting the planet candidates. This two-stage preliminary search identified all-known ultra-short planet candidates and found three new ones.
Are the newly-discovered z ∼ 13 drop-out sources starburst galaxies or quasars?
Authors: Pacucci Fabio , Dayal Pratika , Harikane Yuichi , Inoue Akio K , Loeb Abraham
Published: April 2022

The detection of two z ∼ 13 galaxy candidates has opened a new window on galaxy formation at an era only 330 Myr after the big bang. Here, we investigate the physical nature of these sources: are we witnessing star forming galaxies or quasars at such early epochs? If powered by star formation, the observed ultraviolet (UV) luminosities and number densities can be jointly explained if: (i) these galaxies are extreme star-formers with star formation rates 5−24 × higher than those expected from extrapolations of average lower-redshift relations; (ii) the star formation efficiency increases with halo mass and is countered by increasing dust attenuation from z ∼ 10−5; (iii) they form stars with an extremely top-heavy initial mass function. The quasar hypothesis is also plausible, with the UV luminosity produced by black holes of $\sim 10^8 \, \rm M_\odot$ accreting at or slightly above the Eddington rate (fEdd ∼ 1.0). This black hole mass at z ∼ 13 would require very challenging, but not implausible, growth parameters. If spectroscopically confirmed, these two sources will represent a remarkable laboratory to study the Universe at previously inaccessible redshifts.
Different Genes are Recruited During Convergent Evolution of Pregnancy and the Placenta
Authors: Foster Charles S.P. , Van Dyke James U. , Thompson Michael B. , Smith Nicholas M.A. , Simpfendorfer Colin A. , Murphy Christopher R. , Whittington Camilla M.
Published: April 2022

The repeated evolution of the same traits in distantly related groups (convergent evolution) raises a key question in evolutionary biology: do the same genes underpin convergent phenotypes? Here, we explore one such trait, viviparity (live birth), which, qualitative studies suggest, may indeed have evolved via genetic convergence. There are >150 independent origins of live birth in vertebrates, providing a uniquely powerful system to test the mechanisms underpinning convergence in morphology, physiology, and/or gene recruitment during pregnancy. We compared transcriptomic data from eight vertebrates (lizards, mammals, sharks) that gestate embryos within the uterus. Since many previous studies detected qualitative similarities in gene use during independent origins of pregnancy, we expected to find significant overlap in gene use in viviparous taxa. However, we found no more overlap in uterine gene expression associated with viviparity than we would expect by chance alone. Each viviparous lineage exhibits the same core set of uterine physiological functions. Yet, contrary to prevailing assumptions about this trait, we find that none of the same genes are differentially expressed in all viviparous lineages, or even in all viviparous amniote lineages. Therefore, across distantly related vertebrates, different genes have been recruited to support the morphological and physiological changes required for successful pregnancy. We conclude that redundancies in gene function have enabled the repeated evolution of viviparity through recruitment of different genes from genomic “toolboxes”, which are uniquely constrained by the ancestries of each lineage.
Genomic characterisation reveals a dominant lineage of SARS-CoV-2 in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Palou Theresa , Wilmot Mathilda , Duchene Sebastian , Porter Ashleigh , Kemoi Janlyn , Suarkia Dagwin , Andersson Patiyan , Watt Anne , Sherry Norelle , Seemann Torsten , Sait Michelle , Turharus Charlie , Nguyen Son , Schlebusch Sanmarié , Thompson Craig , McMahon Jamie , Vaccher Stefanie , Lin Chantel , Esoram Danoi , Howden Benjamin P , Susapu Melinda
Published: April 2022

The coronavirus disease pandemic has highlighted the utility of pathogen genomics as a key part of comprehensive public health response to emerging infectious diseases threats, however, the ability to generate, analyse, and respond to pathogen genomic data varies around the world. Papua New Guinea (PNG), which has limited in-country capacity for genomics, has experienced significant outbreaks of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) with initial genomics data indicating a large proportion of cases were from lineages that are not well defined within the current nomenclature. Through a partnership between in-country public health agencies and academic organisations, industry, and a public health genomics reference laboratory in Australia a system for routine SARS-CoV-2 genomics from PNG was established. Here we aim to characterise and describe the genomics of PNG’s second wave and examine the sudden expansion of a lineage that is not well defined but very prevalent in the Western Pacific region. We generated 1797 sequences from cases in PNG and performed phylogenetic and phylodynamic analyses to examine the outbreak and characterise the circulating lineages and clusters present. Our results reveal the rapid expansion of the B.1.466.2 and related lineages within PNG, from multiple introductions into the country. We also highlight the difficulties that unstable lineage assignment causes when using genomics to assist with rapid cluster definitions.
CircLDLR Modulates the Proliferation and Apoptosis of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells in Coronary Artery Disease Through miR-26-5p/KDM6A Axis
Authors: Dai Huangdong , Zhao Naishi , Zheng Yue
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of circLDLR on the proliferation and apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in coronary artery disease and its regulatory mechanism. The expression of KDM6A was detected by qRT-PCR or Western blot. VSMCs were transfected with miR-26-5p mimic/inhibitor or OE KDM6A. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were assessed. Luciferase reporter gene assays were used to examine interactions between miR-26-5p and KDM6A in VSMCs. Downregulation of circLDLR was associated with increased miR-26-5p in coronary artery disease tissues. In addition, circLDLR could inhibit cell proliferation and promote cell apoptosis by regulating miR-26-5p. Moreover, the overexpression of KDM6A reduced VSMCs proliferation and increased apoptosis in an miR-26-5p/circLDLR axis–dependent manner. CircLDLR modulates the proliferation and apoptosis of VSMCs through miR-26-5p/KDM6A axis.
Evaluation and Management of Infertility for Patients Without Insurance Coverage
Authors: Koniares Katherine G. , Patel Karishma , Baecher-Lind Laura
Published: April 2022

Infertility is a common condition which causes substantial patient distress and prompts patients to seek care in outpatient gynecologic offices. The evaluation and treatment of infertility can be costly and insurance coverage for these services varies widely. Obstetrician-gynecologists and other women’s health care professionals often struggle with the approach for patients without insurance coverage for infertility care. This article reviews the status of insurance coverage for infertility services, reviews options for both the evaluation and management of infertility for patients who do not have infertility insurance coverage, and provides resources for ongoing advocacy and support for these patients.
Evaluation of Maintained PhysicAl CaPacity 1-yr After Coronary Patient Cardiac Rehabilitation (EMAP)
Authors: Pavy Bruno , Kubas Sophie , Rocca Cécile , Merle Erick , Kerros Hélène , Tisseau Anne , Iliou Marie-Christine , Le Cunuder Anne , Cohen-Solal Alain , Carré François
Published: April 2022

Purpose:

Data are scarce concerning the sustainable effects of cardiac rehabilitation (CR), on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). This study, carried out using data from a French multicenter study, aimed to clarify the evolution of the CRF of patients with CAD 1 yr after the end of a CR stay.

Methods:

Patients were included after an acute coronary syndrome (77%) and/or coronary revascularization, occurring <3 mo beforehand. All underwent a CR program with CRF evaluation by exercise testing (ET) on a cycle ergometer at the beginning of CR (ET1), at its end (ET2), and 1 yr later (ET3)—all ETs were performed with medication.

Results:

Two hundred fifty-nine patients were included (age 60 ± 10 yr, 89% male) in 16 French CR centers. Left ventricular ejection fraction was 55.3 ± 9%. Revascularization was complete (82%). Maximal workloads were 110 ± 37 (ET1), 139 ± 43 (ET2), and 144 ± 46 W (ET3) (P < .001). The estimated metabolic equivalents of the task (METs) were respectively 5.3 ± 1.4, 6.4 ± 1.6 (P < .001), and 6.6 ± 1.7 (P < .002). One year later, 163 patients (63%) improved or maintained their CRF (ET3 ≥ ET2), 73 (28%) decreased (ET1 < ET3 < ET2), and 23 (9%) lost the benefit of CR (ET3 ≤ ET1).

Conclusion:

Among completers who agreed to enroll in this study, most patients with CAD seem to maintain their CRF 1 yr after CR.