bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interplay of plasma resistivity and rotation on β limits in free boundary diverted tokamaks
Authors: Brunetti D , Graves J P , Ham C J , Saarelma S
Published: November 2023

A plasma resistivity-β driving mechanism aimed at explaining the appearance of long wavelength global instabilities in free boundary high-β tokamak plasmas with a divertor is presented. These perturbations resemble very closely the resistive wall mode phenomenon. Performing a proper toroidal analysis, we show that the magnetohydrodynamic stability is worsened by the interplay of plasma β and resistivity. By modelling the effect of a magnetic separatrix through a careful positioning of the resonant surfaces, we find that in an ideal plasma wall effects are effectively screened, so that the ideal β limit becomes independent of the wall position/physics. A lower wall dependent critical β is found if plasma resistivity is allowed. We find that global stability can be improved with a toroidal flow, small enough not to induce equilibrium modification. The rotation stabilisation effectiveness depends upon the proximity of the plasma equilibrium parameters to the resistive marginal boundary.
Emissive cathode immersed in a plasma: plasma–cathode interactions, operation and stability
Authors: Pagaud F , Dolique V , Claire N , Plihon N
Published: November 2023

Thermionic emission from a polycrystalline tungsten emissive cathode immersed in a magnetized plasma column is investigated experimentally and numerically. Electrical and optical measurements of the cathode temperature show a highly inhomogeneous cathode temperature profile due to plasma–cathode interactions. The spatially and temporally resolved cathode temperature profile provides an in-depth understanding of the thermionic electron current, in excellent agreement with experimental data. The plasma-cathode coupling leads to a sharp and heterogeneous rise in temperature along the cathode, which can eventually lead to unstable cathode operation, with divergent current growth. A detailed thermal modeling accurately reproduces the experimental measurements, and allows to quantify precisely the relative importance of heating and cooling mechanisms in the operation of the cathode immersed in the plasma. Numerical resolution of the resulting integro-differential equation highlights the essential role of heterogeneous ohmic heating and the importance of ion bombardment heating in the emergence of unstable regimes. Detailed thermal modelling enables operating regimes to be predicted in excellent agreement with experimental results.
A dual-kinetic energy harvester operating on the track and wheel of rail deceleration system for self-powered sensors
Authors: Salman Waleed , Fan Chengliang , Pan Hongye , Zhang Zutao , Wu Xiaoping , Abdelrahman Mansour , Tairab Alaeldin M , Ali Asif
Published: November 2023

Alternative energy sources play a crucial role in Outback rail systems, where electrical infrastructure is unavailable for automated power devices used for traffic lights, surveillance cameras, sensors, and other safety equipment at railway stations and intersections. The current study proposes an innovative dual-kinetic energy harvester design to reduce train speed at intersections and before it comes to a halt at the station. Additionally, it harvests energy from both the train track and wheel simultaneously. The proposed device consists of three main units. The first unit utilizes vibrational movement based on a rack pinion. An efficient dual-kinetic energy harvesting system has been developed, utilizing a novel concept that captures the vibration energy generated by the movement of the rail under the influence of the train’s weight. Additionally, as the train passes at high speed, the train wheel’s energy will be transmitted to the top of the device, moving the rack to a depth of 30 mm. A spiral spring is employed to restore the rack to its initial position after the wheel has passed. The tension force of the spring causes the rack to adhere to the track, enabling the transmission of vibrations generated by the track’s movement and releasing energy, causing the motion to be induced during the return stroke. The second component is the transmission unit. The bidirectional rotational motion from the rack pinion is converted into unidirectional rotational motion using three bevel gears, two roller clutches, and a planetary gearbox to enhance the rotations of the generator shaft. The third component is a 1500 W/180 V DC motor for electricity generation. Lastly, the charging circuit was developed to recharge supercharged capacitors. The proposed system was installed before the railway station, and practical tests were conducted, which showed an efficiency of up to 55%.
Run-and-tumble motion in trapping environments
Authors: Angelani Luca
Published: November 2023

Complex or hostile environments can sometimes inhibit the movement capabilities of diffusive particles or active swimmers, who may thus become stuck in fixed positions. This occurs, for example, in the adhesion of bacteria to surfaces at the initial stage of biofilm formation. Here we analyze the dynamics of active particles in the presence of trapping regions, where irreversible particle immobilization occurs at a fixed rate. By solving the kinetic equations for run-and-tumble motion in one space dimension, we give expressions for probability distribution functions, focusing on stationary distributions of blocked particles, and mean trapping times in terms of physical and geometrical parameters. Different extensions of the trapping region are considered, from infinite to cases of semi-infinite and finite intervals. The mean trapping time turns out to be simply the inverse of the trapping rate for infinitely extended trapping zones, while it has a nontrivial form in the semi-infinite case and is undefined for finite domains, due to the appearance of long tails in the trapping time distribution. Finally, to account for the subdiffusive behavior observed in the adhesion processes of bacteria to surfaces, we extend the model to include anomalous diffusive motion in the trapping region, reporting the exact expression of the mean-square displacement.
Response optimization of a three-axis sensitive SERF magnetometer for closed-loop operation
Authors: Zhou 周 Yuanrui 原锐 , Sun 孙 Yongze 永泽 , Wang 汪 Xixi 茜茜 , Qin 秦 Jianan 佳男 , Zhang 张 Xue 雪 , Wang 王 Yanzhang 言章
Published: November 2023

Most triaxial-vectorial magnetic field measurements with spin-exchange relaxation free (SERF) atomic magnetometer (AM) are based on the quasi-steady-state solution of the Bloch equation. However, the responding speed of these methods is greatly limited because the frequency of the modulation signal should be slow enough to ensure the validity of the quasi-steady-state solution. In this work, a new model to describe the response of the three-axis sensitive SERF AM with high modulation frequency is presented and verified. The response of alkali-atomic spin to high-frequency modulation field is further investigated by solving the Bloch equation in a modulation-frequency-dependence manner. This solution is well verified by our experiments and can offer a reference for selection of modulation frequencies. The result shows a potential to achieve a SERF AM operating in a geomagnetic field without heavy aluminum shielding when the modulation frequencies are selected properly.
The response of an Al-10B4C coupled neutron detector based on PIPS technology to Cf-252
Authors: Zhang C. , Wu G. , Li Z. , Li H. , Lu Z. , Zhang H. , Wang X. , Li R. , Chen C. , Liu F. , Qiu Y. , Guo Y.
Published: November 2023

After decades of discussions, it has been firmly established
that detectors made of silicon-based semiconductor materials can be
effectively used for neutron detection by simply coating them with
suitable substances. The incident thermal neutrons interact with the
coating neutron-sensitive materials such as 10B and 6LiF,
resulting in the production of secondary charged particles which can
be effectively detected in the sequencial silicon substrate. In this
article, the detector system was designed with a coupled neutron
detector structure which combined a silicon detector with a
 10B4C film in various forms. The 10B4C layer was
deposited on the substract with electron beam evaporation
method. Two kinds of structrue were discussed: (1) one was the
direct contact neutron detector by depositing 10B4C
directly onto the front surface of silicon-based detectors; (2) the
other was the coupled neutron detectors by depositing
 10B4C onto substrates made from different materials such
as Al and glass which then coupled with silicon-based detectors. The
responses of these neutron detectors to neutrons (Cf-252) were
measured individually. It's showen that the detection capability of
direct contact neutron detectors was lower than the coupled neutron
detectors. For the coupled detectors, the detector by depositing
 10B4C on the aluminum substrate was found to be superior
than that by depositing  10B4C on the glass substrate.
From the public to the private: mapping women’s formal and informal participation in peacebuilding in Mali
Authors: Matfess Hilary , Santara Mariam , Thomas Jakana
Published: November 2023

How do women navigate traditional and informal governance structures to influence matters of communal peace and security? We leverage focus group discussions with around 180 participants and 10 key informant interviews from five different villages in the Ségou region to provide a case study of women’s contributions to peacebuilding in Central Mali. Our research aims to understand which women are able to influence communal dynamics regarding peace and security in Mali and assess which identities and relationships women leverage as they seek to influence these dynamics. One of our key findings underscores the obvious: women are not a homogenous demographic; other facets of their identity shape what roles they can play in conflict management and what appeals they can make in doing so. We find compelling evidence that women’s age, lineage, and their position in the home affect their degree of influence. We find that women are adept at leveraging customary governance mechanisms and their interpersonal networks to exercise influence. Overall, our findings point to the importance of an intersectional analysis, as well as a focus on informal and customary avenues of influence when considering women’s involvement in matters of communal peace and security.
Emotional, Attitudinal, and Sociobiographical Sources of Flow in Online and In-Person EFL Classrooms
Authors: Dewaele Jean-Marc , Macintyre Peter , Kamal Ahmed Iman , Albakistani Alfaf
Published: November 2023

Flow reflects an optimal balance of challenge and skill, which is exhilarating and addictive. The current study investigates the role of three learner emotions (enjoyment, anxiety, and boredom) on the proportion of class time in flow among 165 Arab and Kurdish English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students in both in-person and online classes. Statistical analyses revealed that Foreign Language Enjoyment (FLE), and more specifically, the dimension Personal FLE, was a significant positive predictor of flow, while Foreign Language Boredom was a significant negative predictor. Contrary to previous research, Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety had no significant negative effect on flow. Further analyses showed that students’ nationality and their attitudes toward English and their English teacher had significant effects on their time in flow. It thus seems that flow becomes possible when the teacher manages to get learners in the right emotional mood, allowing those who enjoy themselves intensely to rise to a state of flow, both in in-person and online classes.
Omalizumab therapy of bullous pemphigoid
Authors: Fairley Janet A , Messingham Kelly A N
Published: November 2023

This is an editorial comment on a paper by Chebani, et al that reports on a retrospective, multicentre study of omalizumab in bullous pemphigoid.
Impact of Baseline Corticosteroid Use on the Efficacy and Safety of Upadacitinib in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis: A Post Hoc Analysis of the Phase 3 Clinical Trial Programme
Authors: Raine Tim , Ishiguro Yoh , Rubin David T , Finney-Hayward Tricia , Vladea Ramona , Liu John , Phillips Charles , Cheng Erica , Targownik Laura , Loftus Edward V
Published: November 2023

Background and Aims

This post hoc analysis assessed the efficacy and safety of upadacitinib in patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis stratified by corticosteroid use from the ulcerative colitis Phase 3 clinical trial programme.

Methods

Patients were randomised [1:2] to 8 weeks’ placebo or upadacitinib 45 mg once daily; Week 8 responders were re-randomised [1:1:1] to 52 weeks’ placebo or upadacitinib 15 or 30 mg daily. Corticosteroid dose was kept stable during induction but tapered according to a protocol-defined schedule [or investigator discretion] during maintenance Weeks 0–8. Efficacy outcomes and exposure-adjusted, treatment-emergent adverse event [TEAE] rates were assessed for induction and maintenance stratified by corticosteroid use at induction baseline.

Results

Overall, 377/988 [38%] patients were receiving corticosteroids at induction baseline [placebo, n = 133; upadacitinib 45 mg, n = 244] and 252 [37%] of the 681 clinical responders who entered maintenance were on corticosteroids at induction baseline [n = 84 for each treatment]. Similar proportions of patients receiving upadacitinib achieved clinical remission per Adapted Mayo Score with and without baseline corticosteroids at Weeks 8 and 52. The total proportion of patients re-initiating corticosteroids was higher with placebo [24/84;29%] vs upadacitinib 15 mg [16/81; 20%)] and 30 mg [11/81; 14%]. During induction, patients receiving corticosteroids at baseline had higher rates of TEAEs, serious TEAEs, and serious infections vs those not receiving corticosteroids; however, TEAE rates were similar during maintenance after corticosteroid withdrawal.

Conclusions

Upadacitinib is an effective steroid-sparing treatment in patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis. Clinicaltrials.gov identifiers: NCT02819635; NCT03653026
Glucose pattern in children with classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia: evidence from continuous glucose monitoring
Authors: Galderisi Alfonso , Kariyawasam Dulanjalee , Stoupa Athanasia , Quoc Adrien Nguyen , Pinto Graziella , Viaud Magali , Brabant Severine , Beltrand Jacques , Polak Michel , Samara-Boustani Dinane
Published: November 2023

Background

While the risk for hypoglycemia during acute illness is well described in children with classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), there is little evidence for the prevalence of asymptomatic hypoglycemia and the daily glucose patterns in CAH. Herein, we explored the daytime glucose profile of children with classical CAH.

Methods

We conducted an observational study in 11 children (6 female; age 3.1 years [1.4, 5.1]; body mass index 17.3 kg/m2 [15.6, 17.9]) with a genetic diagnosis of classical CAH receiving hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone replacement therapy. Participants underwent 2 14-day continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sessions and an inpatient 24 h series cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) measures. Data were analyzed for 3 daytime lags (7 Am-4 Pm, 4 Pm-10pm, 10 Pm-7 Am) corresponding to the hydrocortisone dosing period with cortisol and ACTH measured before the hydrocortisone dose.

Results

Eleven participants completed at least 1 CGM session, and 7 out of 11 underwent both the CGM session and the cortisol/ACTH serial measures. In the whole cohort, the percentage of time of sensor glucose values <70 mg/dL was higher during the 10 Pm-7 Am and the 7 Am-4 Pm time slots than in the late afternoon period (17% [7, 54] and 15% [6.8, 24] vs 2% [1.1, 16.7] during the periods 7 Am-4 Pm and 4 Pm-10 Pm, respectively [P = .006 and P = .003]). Nighttime hypoglycemia was mostly spent below the 65 mg/dL (10.9% [4.1, 34]). The glycemic pattern paralleled the nadir of daily cortisol at 8 Am (0.72 [0.45, 1]μg/dL). A greater percentage of time in hypoglycemia was associated with lower cortisol concentration at 7 Am and 10 Pm (P < .001 and P = .005).

Conclusions

Continuous glucose monitoring demonstrated a disrupted daily glucose pattern in children with CAH, paralleled by a lower cortisol concentration.

Clinicaltrials.gov registration

NCT04322435
Metabolic disorders mediate the relation of miscarriage with cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Zhu Fang , Noordermeer Daniëlle , Aribas Elif , Bos Maxime , Boersma Eric , Kavousi Maryam
Published: November 2023

Aims

The extent to which the contribution of pregnancy loss to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) can be explained by metabolic disorders is poorly elucidated but holds insights for reducing long-term cardiovascular risk. The aim of this study is to investigate the mediating effects of hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), and lipoprotein metabolism disorders on the association of miscarriage and stillbirth with coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and composite outcomes.

Methods and results

A total of 163 283 ever-gravid women (age 55.3 ± 7.9 years) from the UK Biobank cohort without established metabolic disorders and CVDs were included and followed from 2007 to 2010 baseline until December 2020. Causal mediation analyses were used to estimate the proportion mediated. Hypertension mediated 11.1% (95% confidence interval, 3.7–18.5%) of the association between a history of miscarriage and incident CHD. Approximately, 9.5% (4.1–14.8%) of the effect of recurrent miscarriages on incident CHD was via hypertension, 8.4% (2.5–14.3%) of the effect was via lipoprotein metabolism disorders, 1.7% (0.5–2.9%) of the effect was via DM, and 10.7% (0.2–21.1%) of the effect of recurrent miscarriages on incident stroke was via hypertension. Hypertension mediated the largest proportion of effect for the atherosclerotic cardiovascular event (15.5% for a history of miscarriage and 9.4% for recurrent miscarriages), followed by lipoprotein metabolism disorders and DM.

Conclusion

Hypertension, DM, and lipoprotein metabolism disorders mediated the association between miscarriage and various cardiovascular outcomes in later life. In particular, hypertension mediated a large proportion of the relationship between miscarriage and atherosclerotic CVD.
Speciation in kleptoparasites of oak gall wasps often correlates with shifts into new tree habitats, tree organs, or gall morphospace
Authors: Ward Anna K G , Zhang Y Miles , Brown Guerin E , Hippee Alaine C , Prior Kirsten M , Rollins Shannon , Sierra Nicolas , Sheikh Sofia I , Tribull Carly M , Forbes Andrew A
Published: November 2023

Host shifts to new plant species can drive speciation for plant-feeding insects, but how commonly do host shifts also drive diversification for the parasites of those same insects? Oak gall wasps induce galls on oak trees and shifts to novel tree hosts and new tree organs have been implicated as drivers of oak gall wasp speciation. Gall wasps are themselves attacked by many insect parasites, which must find their hosts on the correct tree species and organ, but also must navigate the morphologically variable galls with which they interact. Thus, we ask whether host shifts to new trees, organs, or gall morphologies correlate with gall parasite diversification. We delimit species and infer phylogenies for two genera of gall kleptoparasites, Synergus and Ceroptres, reared from a variety of North American oak galls. We find that most species were reared from galls induced by just one gall wasp species, and no parasite species was reared from galls of more than four species. Most kleptoparasite divergence events correlate with shifts to non-ancestral galls. These shifts often involved changes in tree habitat, gall location, and gall morphology. Host shifts are thus implicated in driving diversification for both oak gall wasps and their kleptoparasitic associates.
Impact of wastewater treatment upgrade and nitrogen removal on bacterial communities and their interactions in eutrophic prairie streams
Authors: Bergbusch Nathanael T , Wong Alicia R , Russell Jennifer N , Swarbrick Vanessa J , Freeman Claire , Bergsveinson Jordyn , Yost Christopher K , Courtenay Simon C , Leavitt Peter R
Published: November 2023

Eutrophication can impact bacteria by altering fluxes and processing of nutrients and organic matter. However, relatively little is known of how bacterial communities, diversity, and interactions with phytoplankton might respond to nutrient management. We used 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing to compare bacterial assemblages in the water column upstream (control) and downstream (impact) of a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) located on a eutrophic prairie stream. Sampling occurred before (2012) and after (2018) the 2016 biological nutrient removal (BNR) upgrade that removed >90% of nitrogen (N, mainly NH4+). Multivariate ordination suggested that effluent-impacted bacterial communities were associated mainly with elevated NH4+ concentrations before the upgrade, whereas those after BNR were characteristic of reference systems (low NO3−, diverse regulation). Genera such as Betaproteobacteria and Rhodocyclacea were abundant at impacted sites in 2012, whereas Flavobacterium and a potential pathogen (Legionella) were common at impacted sites in 2018. Nitrifier bacteria (Nitrospira and Nitrosomonas) were present but rare at all sites in 2012, but recorded only downstream of the WWTP in 2018. Generalized additive models showed that BNR reduced bacterial diversity, with ∼70% of the deviance in diversity explained by hydrology, pH, nutrients, and phytoplankton abundance. Overall, NH4+ removal reduced symptoms of cultural eutrophication in microbe assemblages.
Erwiniaceae bacteria play defensive and nutritional roles in two widespread ambrosia beetles
Authors: Cambronero-Heinrichs Juan Carlos , Battisti Andrea , Biedermann Peter H W , Cavaletto Giacomo , Castro-Gutierrez Víctor , Favaro Lorenzo , Santoiemma Giacomo , Rassati Davide
Published: November 2023

Ambrosia beetles are fungal-growing insects excavating galleries deep inside the wood. Their success as invaders increased scientific interest towards them. However, most studies on their microbiota targeted their fungal associates whereas the role of bacterial associates is understudied. To explore the role of abundant microbial associates, we isolated bacteria from active galleries of two widespread ambrosia beetles, Xylosandrus crassiusculus and X. germanus. These isolates were classified within the Erwiniaceae family and through a phylogenetic analysis including isolates from other insects we showed that they clustered with isolates obtained from ambrosia and bark beetles, including Erwinia typographi. The whole genome analysis of the isolate from active galleries of X. crassiusculus suggested that this bacterium plays both a nutritional role, by providing essential amino acids and enzymes for the hydrolysis of plant biomass, and a defensive role, by producing antibiotics. This defensive role was also tested in vitro against fungi, including mutualists, common associates, and parasites. The bacteria inhibited the growth of some of the common associates and parasites but did not affect mutualists. Our study supported the hypothesis of a mutualist role of Erwiniaceae bacteria in ambrosia beetles and highlighed the importance of bacteria in maintaining the symbiosis of their host with nutritional fungi.
The relationship between forest structure and naturalness in the Finnish national forest inventory
Authors: Myllymäki Mari , Tuominen Sakari , Kuronen Mikko , Packalen Petteri , Kangas Annika
Published: November 2023

There is considerable interest in identifying and locating natural forests as accurately as possible, because they are deemed essential in preventing biodiversity loss. In the boreal region, natural forests contain a substantial amount of dead wood and exhibit considerable variation in tree age, size, and species composition. However, it is difficult to define natural forests in a quantitative manner. This is an issue, for example, in the Finnish national forest inventory. If naturalness could be related to the metrics derived from tree measurements, it would be easier to locate natural forests based on the inventory data. In this study, we investigated the value of metrics computed from tree locations and tree sizes for the characterization of a key aspect of naturalness, namely, structural naturalness as defined in the Finnish national forest inventory. We used L-moments, Gini coefficient, Lorenz asymmetry, and interquartile range to quantify the variations in tree size at the plot level. We summarized the spatial pattern of trees with a spatial aggregation index. We compared the structural metrics, species proportions, and stand age using the classes of structural naturalness described in the Finnish national forest inventory, which have been determined in the field without strict numerical rules. These categories are ‘natural’, ‘near-natural’, and ‘non-natural’. We found that the forests evaluated as structurally natural had larger variations in tree size and species composition and showed a more clustered spatial pattern of trees on average, although the variation in the structural metrics was considerable in all three classes. In addition, we used the structural metrics to predict naturalness by employing a random forest algorithm. Based on the structural metrics, it was possible to obtain high precision in the classification only if we simultaneously accepted low recall, and vice versa; the link between the inspected metrics and naturalness evaluated in the field was weak. The stand age separated the three classes more clearly and it also improved the classification.
Mutations in SLC45A2 lead to loss of melanin in parrot feathers
Authors: Ghosh Roy Shatadru , Bakhrat Anna , Abdu Moty , Afonso Sandra , Pereira Paulo , Carneiro Miguel , Abdu Uri
Published: November 2023

Bird plumage coloration is a complex and multifactorial process that involves both genetic and environmental factors. Diverse pigment groups contribute to plumage variation in different birds. In parrots, the predominant green color results from the combination of 2 different primary colors: yellow and blue. Psittacofulvin, a pigment uniquely found in parrots, is responsible for the yellow coloration, while blue is suggested to be the result of light scattering by feather nanostructures and melanin granules. So far, genetic control of melanin-mediated blue coloration has been elusive. In this study, we demonstrated that feather from the yellow mutant rose-ringed parakeet displays loss of melanosome granules in spongy layer of feather barb. Using whole genome sequencing, we found that mutation in SLC45A2, an important solute carrier protein in melanin synthetic pathway, is responsible for the sex-linked yellow phenotype in rose-ringed parakeet. Intriguingly, one of the mutations, P53L found in yellow Psittacula krameri is already reported as P58A/S in the human albinism database, known to be associated with human OCA4. We further showed that mutations in SLC45A2 gene affect melanin production also in other members of Psittaculidae family such as alexandrine and plum-headed parakeets. Additionally, we demonstrate that the mutations associated with the sex-linked yellow phenotype, localized within the transmembrane domains of the SLC45A2 protein, affect the protein localization pattern. This is the first evidence of plumage color variation involving SLC45A2 in parrots and confirmation of associated mutations in the transmembrane domains of the protein that affects its localization.
Delirium Due to Potentially Avoidable Hospitalizations Among Older Adults
Authors: Whittington Caroline , Skains Rachel M , Zhang Yue , Osborne John D , O’Leary Tobias , Freeman Hyun B , Martin Roy C , Vickers Jasmine K , Flood Kellie L , Markland Alayne D , Buford Thomas W , Brown Cynthia J , Kennedy Richard E
Published: November 2023

Background

Delirium is a common complication during acute care hospitalizations in older adults. A substantial percentage of admissions are for ambulatory care-sensitive conditions (ACSCs) or potentially avoidable hospitalizations—conditions that might be treated early in the outpatient setting to prevent hospitalization and hospital complications.

Methods

This retrospective cross-sectional study examined rates of delirium among older adults hospitalized for ACSCs. Participants were 39 933 older adults ≥65 years of age admitted from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2019 to general inpatient units and ICUs of a large Southeastern academic medical center. Delirium was defined as a score ≥ 2 on the Nursing Delirium Screening Scale or positive on the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit during admission, and ACSCs were identified from the primary admission diagnosis using standardized definitions. Generalized linear mixed models were used to examine the association between ACSCs and delirium, compared with admissions for non-ACSC diagnoses, adjusting for covariates and repeated observations for individuals with multiple admissions.

Results

Delirium occurred in 15.6% of admissions for older adults. Rates were lower for ACSC admissions versus admissions for other conditions (13.9% vs 15.8%, p < .001). Older age and higher comorbidity were significant predictors of the development of delirium.

Conclusions

Rates of delirium among older adults hospitalized for ACSCs were lower than rates for non-ACSC hospitalization but still substantial. Optimizing the treatment of ACSCs in the outpatient setting is an important goal not only for reducing hospitalizations but also for reducing risks for hospital-associated complications such as delirium.
Gender inequality and utilization of ART: an international cross-sectional and longitudinal analysis
Authors: Fitzgerald Oisín , Dyer Silke , Zegers-Hochschild Fernando , Keller Elena , Adamson G David , Chambers Georgina M
Published: November 2023

STUDY QUESTION

What is the association between a country’s level of gender equality and access to ART, as measured through ART utilization?

SUMMARY ANSWER

ART utilization is associated with a country’s level of gender equality even after controlling for the level of development.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Although gender equality is recognized as an important determinant of population health, its association with fertility care, a highly gendered condition, has not been explored.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

A longitudinal cross-national analysis of ART utilization in 69 countries during 2002–2014 was carried out.

PARTICPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

The Gender Inequality Index (GII), Human Development Index (HDI), and their component indicators were modelled against ART utilization using univariate regression models as well as mixed-effects regression methods (adjusted for country, time, and economic/human development) with multiple imputation to account for missing data.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

ART utilization is associated with the GII. In an HDI-adjusted analysis, a one standard deviation decrease in the GII (towards greater equality) is associated with a 59% increase in ART utilization. Gross national income per capita, the maternal mortality ratio, and female parliamentary representation were the index components most predictive of ART utilization.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

Only ART was used rather than all infertility treatments (including less costly and non-invasive treatments such as ovulation induction). This was a country-level analysis and the results cannot be generalized to smaller groups. Not all modelled variables were available for each country across 2002–2014.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

Access to fertility care is central to women’s sexual and reproductive health, to women’s rights, and to human rights. As gender equality improves, so does access to ART. This relation is likely to be reinforcing and bi-directional, with progress towards global, equitable access to fertility care also improving women’s status and participation in societies.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

External funding was not provided for this study. G.D.A. declares consulting fees from Labcorp and CooperSurgical. G.D.A. is the founder and CEO of Advanced Reproductive Care, Inc., as well as the Chair of the International Committee for Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ICMART) and the World Endometriosis Research Foundation, both of which are unpaid roles. G.M.C. is an ICMART Board Representative, which is an unpaid role, and no payments are received from ICMART to UNSW, Sydney, or to G.M.C. to undertake this study. O.F., S.D., F.Z.-H., and E.K. report no conflicts of interest.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

N/A.
Influenza A(H3N2) Antibody Responses to Standard-Dose Versus Enhanced Influenza Vaccine Immunogenicity in Older Adults and Prior Season's Vaccine Status
Authors: Zhong Shuyi , Ng Tiffany W Y , Skowronski Danuta M , Iuliano A Danielle , Leung Nancy H L , Perera Ranawaka A P M , Ho Faith , Fang Vicky J , Tam Yat Hung , Ip Dennis K M , Havers Fiona G , Fry Alicia M , Aziz-Baumgartner Eduardo , Barr Ian G , Peiris Malik , Thompson Mark G , Cowling Benjamin J
Published: November 2023

Background

Annual influenza vaccination is recommended for older adults but repeated vaccination with standard-dose influenza vaccine has been linked to reduced immunogenicity and effectiveness, especially against A(H3N2) viruses.

Methods

Community-dwelling Hong Kong adults aged 65–82 years were randomly allocated to receive 2017–2018 standard-dose quadrivalent, MF59-adjuvanted trivalent, high-dose trivalent, and recombinant-HA quadrivalent vaccination. Antibody response to unchanged A(H3N2) vaccine antigen was compared among participants with and without self-reported prior year (2016–2017) standard-dose vaccination.

Results

Mean fold rise (MFR) in antibody titers from day 0 to day 30 by hemagglutination inhibition and virus microneutralization assays were lower among 2017–2018 standard-dose and enhanced vaccine recipients with (range, 1.7–3.0) versus without (range, 4.3–14.3) prior 2016–2017 vaccination. MFR was significantly reduced by about one-half to four-fifths for previously vaccinated recipients of standard-dose and all 3 enhanced vaccines (β range, .21–.48). Among prior-year vaccinated older adults, enhanced vaccines induced higher 1.43 to 2.39-fold geometric mean titers and 1.28 to 1.74-fold MFR versus standard-dose vaccine by microneutralization assay.

Conclusions

In the context of unchanged A(H3N2) vaccine strain, prior-year vaccination was associated with reduced antibody response among both standard-dose and enhanced influenza vaccine recipients. Enhanced vaccines improved antibody response among older adults with prior-year standard-dose vaccination.
110 Evaluation of Computer Vision to Analyze Beef Cattle Feeding Behavior
Authors: Mendes Egleu D M , Pi Yalong , Tao Jian , Tedeschi Luis O
Published: November 2023

Leveraging computer vision (CV) methods to study pen-fed cattle feeding behavior presents several advantages, including monitoring animal health and identifying feed efficient animals. This research employed a region-based convolutional neural network (RCNN) combined with the common objects in context (COCO) dataset for automatic livestock recognition using CV techniques in experimental feedlot pens. Thirty Angus-influenced steers were allocated in one pen with four automated feed intake systems (AFIS; Vytelle SENSE). CV data were recorded during daylight hours using a webcam (Microsoft LifeCam Cinema) with a resolution of 1280x720 pixels at ten frames per second connected to a video surveillance camera software (Contaware, Switzerland). The CV dataset obtained by the cameras, Figure 1, was benchmarked with feeding behavior data obtained from observed annotations (OA) and AFIS. The CV model utilized was a Mask-RCNN with pre-trained weights on the COCO dataset. The Mask RCNN algorithm can identify and locate multiple objects, objects of different scales, and overlapping objects within an image. The COCO dataset is a large and diverse set of annotated images that can be used for training and evaluating object detection models. The fully trained Mask-RCNN model takes each video frame as input and outputs the pixel segmentation of each object detected. For the CV analyses, each animal bounding box was associated with a score threshold, and each pixel within was assigned a probability threshold; both ranging from 0 to 100. The higher the score and probability thresholds are, the fewer the boxes and pixels will be marked as the animal boxing shape, resulting in less feeding detection from the CV system. In contrast, a low score and probability thresholds produce many predictions, including false detections, which might be misleading. Therefore, a dataset analysis was conducted to optimize the best threshold combination. We evaluated the accuracy and precision of the CV model compared with OA and AFIS by analyzing a dataset section of feeding events of one feed bunk using a 0.5 score and 0.5 probability thresholds. We obtained the values for the true positive (TP), false positive (FP), true negative (TN), and false negative (FN) to calculate the accuracy = [TP+TN]/[TP+TN+FP+FN], and precision = [TP]/[TP+FP], Table 1. As a result, the CV model achieved 95.39% and 99.82% accuracy and 93.60% and 99.90% precision when compared with OA and AFIS, respectively. Our findings showcase the promising capabilities of employing the Mask-RCNN algorithm and COCO datasets for detecting beef cattle feeding behavior in feedlot pens. This approach holds significant value for the cattle industry by enabling precise monitoring and analysis of individual animal behavior within feedlot pens, facilitating early detection of behavioral abnormalities.
98 Molecular Phenomics - a Multi-Omics Approach to Understanding Complex Traits in Cattle
Authors: Biase Fernando
Published: November 2023

Phenomics was first defined by Bilder et al. (2009), as "an emerging transdiscipline dedicated to the systematic study of phenotypes on a genome-wide scale." Later, in a joint meeting, the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) adapted the definition to read as "the use of large-scale approaches to study how genetic instructions from a single gene or the whole genome translate into the full set of phenotypic traits of an organism." The term molecular phenomics was then coined to indicate systems-level studies of the multiple layers of cellular information (DNA, transcripts, protein, metabolites) used to understand complex traits. Researchers in this field use multi-omic approaches to produce systemic level data and sophisticated analytical procedures to integrate multiple modalities of biological information. In this talk, I will demonstrate how molecular phenomics has elegantly advanced our understanding of complex traits in animal sciences through its application in studies on production, fertility, and animal health. These studies have made substantial contributions to reducing the knowledge gap between genotypes and complex phenotypes.
173 Awardee Talk: Spot Sample Protocol for Gas Quantification of Grazing Beef Cattle Using a Greenfeed
Authors: Dressler Elizabeth , Bormann Jennifer M , Weaber Robert L , Rolf Megan M
Published: November 2023

Through a natural digestive process called enteric fermentation, cattle produce greenhouse gases that are an environmental concern and an energetic loss. Gas fluxes can be quantified with several techniques; however, an open circuit gas quantification system (OCGQS) allows for unencumbered quantification of methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and oxygen (O2) from grazing cattle. In the literature, there is wide variation in the minimum number of spot samples recommended to evaluate gas fluxes of an individual animal, while no recommendations have been made to evaluate metabolic heat production. The objective of this study was to characterize the minimum number of spot samples needed to accurately quantify metabolic heat production and CH4, CO2, and O2 gas fluxes in grazing beef cattle. A minimum of 100 spot samples each were collected from seventeen grazing animals using a OCGQS (GreenFeed, C-Lock, Inc). The mean gas fluxes were computed starting from the first 10 visits (forward) and increasing by increments of 10 until 100 visits was reached. Mean gas fluxes were also computed starting from visit 100 moving back in time in increments of 10 (reverse) using the same approach. Mean gas fluxes were used to calculate individual animal metabolic heat production for each interval with both the forward and reverse approaches. Pearson and Spearman correlations were computed between the full 100 visits and each shortened visit interval. The minimum number of spot samples was determined when correlations with the full 100 visits were greater than 0.95. The 0.95 correlation threshold was met between 30 and 40 visits for all gas fluxes and metabolic heat production. Therefore, mean forward and reverse gas fluxes and metabolic heat production were also computed starting at 30 visits and increasing by 2 until 40 visits and vice versa. The results indicated that the minimum number of spot samples needed for accurate quantification of CH4, CO2, and O2 gas fluxes are 38, 40, and 40, respectively. Using gas fluxes collected by the OCGQS, metabolic heat production can be calculated after 36 spot samples. The practical calculation of metabolic heat production will require 40 spot samples given the necessary number of spot samples for component gases in the calculation. Animals met the required number of spot samples for quantification of metabolic heat production, CH4, CO2, and O2 in 29.5 ± 8.7, 30.5 ± 9.1, 31.8 ± 9.2, and 31.8 ± 9.2 days, respectively. Large variation existed around the number of days needed to achieve the recommended number of spot samples. For this reason, protocols for the OCGQS should be based on the total number of spot samples, rather than a test duration.
194 Functional Properties of Inositol in Canine Nutrition
Authors: Kayser Emanuela , de Godoy Maria R C , Rodrigues-Zas Sandra L
Published: November 2023

Inositol is a natural extract mainly from Carob, a typical Mediterranean fruit, and small quantities of apples and grapes. Inositol has been associated with several benefits such as antioxidant, capacity, anti-cancer, and hyperglycemia reduction in type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, there is little information regarding the effects of inositol on canine nutrition. This study aimed to evaluate the longitudinal effects of daily supplementation of incremental doses of inositol on serum oxidative stress, inflammatory biomarkers, gut hormones, and postprandial glycemic and insulinemic responses in overweight dogs. Thirty adult dogs were used in a completely randomized study, with 10 animals per treatment. Dogs were fed a commercial dry extruded complete and balanced diet once daily to maintain body weight. Following a 15-d adaptation to the control diet, dogs were fed their respective treatment diets for 60 d. Three experimental treatments were used: 12 g/d of corn syrup (control), 8 g/d of inositol source, and 16 g/d of inositol source. The treatments supplementation had no detrimental effect on the overall health of the dogs and food intake. Throughout the experimental period, serum oxidative stress biomarkers did not differ among dogs fed different dietary treatments (P > 0.05). However, a linear increase across days of the serum cytokine CXCL1 with the supplementation of increasing inositol concentrations was observed (P = 0.0105). Although no differences were observed in the glycemic response to an intravenous glucose tolerance test with the supplementation of increasing concentrations of inositol (P > 0.05), a linear decrease in the average glucose for 24 h measured with interstitial glucose monitors was observed with the supplementation of increasing concentrations of inositol (P = 0.0215). These data suggest that the longitudinal supplementation of inositol may interact with inflammatory response and contribute to the regulation of glucose metabolism.
201 Effect of Spray Dried Plasma Compared with Egg White Or Whole Egg as Functional Binders in Canned Pet Food
Authors: Campbell Joy , Rodriguez Carmen , Polo Javier
Published: November 2023

Many different binders are used in canned pet food providing functionality such as gelling, texture, and protein content. Spray dried plasma (SDP) is a consistent high protein ingredient commonly utilized in wet pet food to provide texture and for water binding and fat emulsification characteristics. The objective of the study was to evaluate functionality of three different binders: egg white, whole egg, and SDP in chunks recipes at four inclusions levels (0, 2, 4, and 6%.) Canned petfood batches were replicated 3 times with each condition using the same recipe containing different raw materials, mainly derived from chicken and pigs, with control (no binder) and level of all binders in each replication. Thus, 3 batches per binder and level were produced for a total of 9 batches. The binder was included to partially replace poultry carcass in the chunks. Cans of chunks and gravy were produced with the ratio of 50:50 chunks to gravy and cooked at 121°C for 1 hour. Cans were stored at room temperature for 14 days before product measurements. Within each batch, 6 to 9 cans were evaluated for protein, texture, hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, chewiness, and gravy absorption. Protein was similar at 2% inclusion between binders. At 4% binder inclusion, protein was greatest (P < 0.05) with SDP and egg white compared with whole egg and control; while 6% inclusion resulted in greatest (P < 0.05) protein with egg white followed by SDP, whole egg, and control. Texture was increased (P < 0.05) with SDP and egg white compared with whole egg and control at 2% and 6%, while at 4% inclusion SDP was the highest (P < 0.05) compared with all other binders. Hardness was greatest (P < 0.05) with SDP at 2 and 4% compared with all binders; while at 6% inclusion egg white was greatest followed by SDP, whole egg, and control. Cohesiveness, springiness, and chewiness were greatest with SDP at all levels compared with other binders. Gravy absorption into the chunks with 2% binder inclusion was increased (P < 0.05) with SDP and egg white, similar between all binders at 4% but greater than control, and greatest with egg white at 6% followed by SDP, whole egg, and control. Overall, greater amounts of binder increased protein, hardness, texture, and gravy absorption. Spray dried plasma may be used as an alternative for egg white and whole egg in canned pet food.